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Long ago, in the fantasy world of Kumandra, humans and dragons lived together in harmony. However, when sinister monsters known as the Druun threatened the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. Now, 500 years later, those same monsters have returned, and it’s up to a lone warrior to track down the last dragon and stop the Druun for good.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Calista B. comments, “In terms of world-building, Raya and the Last Dragon is probably one of Disney’s best. This animated film has a fascinating setting and mythology; however the story falters a little… Raya and the Last Dragon feels a lot more dramatic and serious in tone than most other Disney films. On the one hand, I really enjoy this as I believe we need more serious kids’ movies.” Eshaan M. adds, “A groundbreaking film for representation, storytelling, and world-building, Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon is a must-watch for viewers of all ages. This is Disney’s first film with a Southeast Asian female lead – YAY!” See their full reviews below.

Raya And The Last Dragon
By Calista B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 17

In terms of world-building, Raya and the Last Dragon is probably one of Disney’s best. This animated film has a fascinating setting and mythology; however the story falters a little.<p>This film takes place in Kumandra, a world comprising five divided nations. When an evil force known as The Druun sends Kumandra into a state of despair, Raya (Kelly Marie Tran) sets out on a journey to find the last dragon, and defeat The Druun for good.

First, the animation in this film is strong and very realistic; perhaps a little too realistic to the point where some shots look like photographs. This might be a pet peeve of mine, because I don’t like ultra-realistic animation. Sure, it is impressive, technologically speaking, but I find stylized animation to be much more striking and memorable. Aside from that, it’s very beautiful. I really like the colors, and how each location is so visually distinct.

Raya and the Last Dragon feels a lot more dramatic and serious in tone than most other Disney films. On the one hand, I really enjoy this as I believe we need more serious kids’ movies. However, I’m assuming the producers were concerned about this film being “too dark for kids” because there is a lot of really unfunny comedy in the beginning. This comedy mostly comes from Sisu (Awkwafina), the last dragon. And while I’m usually a fan of Awkwafina and her comedic timing, she’s just not given any good material here. The jokes don’t fit with the setting or tone, and they really bog down Sisu’s first few scenes. Yet once the comedy slows down, she becomes a more dramatic character which I enjoyed.

I have a few concerns with the themes of Raya and the Last Dragon. The message that, instead of being divided, we need to come together and stand united is fine. However the execution of that message is a bit questionable. No spoilers, but let’s just say a certain character really deserved some repercussions for all the problems they caused. I do understand that the moral is that we should learn to trust each other, but I feel like that message is used as an excuse to not properly redeem a character.

I give Raya and The Last Dragon 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to 18. It comes out on March 5, 2021 in theaters and on Disney+ with Premiere Access.

Raya and the Last Dragon
By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

A groundbreaking film for representation, storytelling, and world-building, Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon is a must-watch for viewers of all ages. This is Disney’s first film with a Southeast Asian female lead – YAY!

Raya and the Last Dragon is an absolutely enrapturing film! The film is set in the realm of Kumandra, where humans and dragons used to live together until a force called the Druun attacked, a miserable, swirly, “mindless” plague “born of human discord” (much like any modern issue). The Druun turns humans into stone and breaks Kumandra into warring factions. The dragon-protectors, who were the leaders of the dragons in ancient Kumandra, all added bits of their powers to a single, Infinity Stone-esque blue gem, which, thanks to the actions of Raya (Kelly Marie Tran), princess of the land of Heart, is scattered in pieces across all the realms. Six years later, we catch up with Raya (whose father has been turned into stone) and her crew of interesting companions on her mission to retrieve all of the gemstones. Her most significant companion is the sassy dragon-protector Sisu (Awkwafina). Sisu grows closer to Raya throughout the film, becoming her BFF, confidant, life coach, comic relief, sounding board, and more. Raya has to face off against her frenemy Namaari (Gemma Chan), who goes way back in Raya’s life, and there are deep fractures in their relationship.

Raya and the Last Dragon has a sufficiently intricate world inspired by various Southeast Asian cultures, and its beauty lies in that characterization: simple yet imaginative. The animation is… okay. It’s certainly up to Disney standard but nothing extremely new in the wheelhouse for this project. Tuktuk, Raya’s interesting armadillo-like vehicle of choice, is probably the most inventive creation of animation in the film. Yes, that’s including the dragons. I was hoping for a little less Mushu and more Hookfang; Sisu and her dragon siblings look pretty meek and kind of like characters we’ve seen before. As far as the voice acting goes, Awkwafina’s portrayal of Sisu steals the show; it almost makes up for the animation! Her sarcastic humor, smooth delivery, and superb comic timing all work perfectly for the role. As for Raya, and the power and individuality with which Kelly Marie Tran dealt with the role also are wondrous.

Raya and the Last Dragon teaches teamwork and perseverance.There’s some action, violence, and certain thematic elements to watch out for, but, overall, a lovely family watch!

I give Raya and the Last Dragon 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 7 to 18, plus adults. Raya and the Last Dragon is out now on Disney+ and in theatres! Go watch it!

Yes Day is an upcoming American comedy film directed by Miguel Arteta, from a screenplay and screen story by Justin Malen, based upon the children’s book of the same name by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld. It stars Jennifer Garner, Édgar Ramírez, and Jenna Ortega. Always feeling like they have to say NO to their kids and co-workers, Allison and Carlos decide to give their three kids a YES DAY — where for 24 hours the kids make the rules. Little did they know that they’d be going on a whirlwind adventure around Los Angeles that would bring the family closer to each other than ever before.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kyla C. comments, “If you’re looking for a humorous, fun family film, Yes Day is the perfect option! Lots of laughs, great acting, and spectacular special effects fill up this film to make it an amazing movie. Sit down ready to laugh when you choose Yes Day.” Tiana S., adds, “This fun film offers plenty of great lessons. The main message is that it is okay to step out of your comfort zone and have a little fun. Also, sometimes it really is great to have parents or others by your side to help you out and make sure you are doing what’s right for yourself.” See their full reviews below.

Yes Day
By Kyla C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 11

If you’re looking for a humorous, fun family film, Yes Day is the perfect option! Lots of laughs, great acting, and spectacular special effects fill up this film to make it an amazing movie. Sit down ready to laugh when you choose Yes Day.

Allison Torres (Jennifer Garner), a mother who used to be full of fun, finds herself saying “no” to everything. Her oldest daughter, Katie Torres (Jenna Ortega), wants to go to the Fleek Festival with her friends, but gets a “no”. That is, unless she goes with her Mom, which is not cool anymore. All of the kids are getting frustrated, and their guidance counselor (Nat Faxon) gives Allison and her husband Carlos (Edgar Ramirez) a tip. Have a “Yes Day”- answer “yes” to everything your kids ask. Watch as the family unites on an adventure-filled day while the kids learn some lessons. 

This film is a creative adaptation of Amy Kroise Rosenthal’s children’s book. As you can imagine, a day where parents say “yes” to everything their kids ask will probably turn out chaotic. A lot of special effects are used to make this come to life. They are realistic and engaging. Along with the incredible effects, the acting is beyond most entertainment that I’ve seen. The actors connect with their characters and bring them to life. They do it in such a way that makes the characters seem more likeable, while not giving off the sense that they are perfect. Flaws in each of the characters, particularly in the kids, can be seen, which is very important to make them more relatable. Yet another element of creativity is the constant humor. The hilarious storyline combined with the on-point acting create wonderful, funny scenes spread throughout the entire film. Never doubt this film’s ability to make you burst into laughter! 

Most of the movie is focused on the themes of having fun, laughing and appreciating family. The film is pretty light-hearted, but there are some deeper messages such as listening to parents, understanding what is best for you and realizing what you did wrong. The family members get to see each other in an entirely new light. Siblings make up, parents grow closer, and the family becomes more loving of each other in the end.

I give Yes Day 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 6 to 14, plus adults. Yes Day releases on Netflix on March 12, 2021, so get ready to laugh! 

Yes Day
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

Yes Day is about the Torres Family deciding to have a family “yes day” where the kids make up the rules for 24 hours and the parents can’t say “no.” After the kids, Katie (Jenna Ortega), Nando (Julian Lerner) and Elle (Everly Carganilla) challenge their parents Alison (Jennifer Garner) and Carlos (Édgar Ramírez) into thinking that they could never make it through the challenges because they aren’t cool enough, the family has a day of family-building activities filled with ups and downs, while trying to make it the best “yes day” ever. Things get interesting when the kids decide to try things without adult supervision.

The concept of “yes days” will have kids excited and parents ready for the challenge. But, even though they sound like a lot of fun, they can be dangerous or possibly get out of hand without proper supervision as you can see in this film. My favorite scene in this movie is when the Torres kids decide to have their family order a Gut Buster ice cream. It has so much ice cream and the parents didn’t realize this was part of a “yes day” activity and they have to help eat it all. I also like the scene where Alison Torres is fighting a lady for a stuffed pink gorilla at the carnival. It is hilarious and also great to see what she would do to make her kids happy. My favorite character is Katie, because I really like her challenging and brave personality and how fun and cool she is in the film. I also loved watching Katie and her mom’s relationship evolve throughout “yes day.”

This fun film offers plenty of great lessons. The main message is that it is okay to step out of your comfort zone and have a little fun. Also, sometimes it really is great to have parents or others by your side to help you out and make sure you are doing what’s right for yourself. Some things to be aware of are some mild profanity and some dangerous activities kids that should not try at home.

I rate Yes Day 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to 18, plus adults. Make sure to look for it when it premieres March 12, 2021 on Netflix.

A follow-up series to the 1980s sitcom about a young foster child named Punky. Punky Brewster (Soleil Moon Frye) is now a successful photographer with a gaggle of her own adopted kids, both inspired by her beloved adoptive dad Henry. Her savvy teen daughter Hannah (Lauren Lindsay Donis) is helping her learn online dating after a recent divorce, while her younger sons Daniel and Diego (Oliver de los Santos, Noah Cotrell) can’t stop bickering. She’s still best friends with Cherie (Cherie Johnson), who runs the orphanage and hopes the Brewsters can help out with Izzy (Quinn Copeland), a troubled kid with a running-away streak, not unlike young Punky. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine S. comments, “I love that the show maintains all of the original characters, while also adding new characters, primarily Punky’s children. Punky’s family reflects the reality of today’s diverse family structure including divorced parents, biological and adopted children, different races as well as a very diverse set of personalities.” Giana N. adds, “Punky Brewster is an amazing show with great messages and entertaining concepts. It’s a show that makes you laugh, and gives you an old familiar feeling, especially if you are a fan of the original show. This new Punky Brewster has the potential to be a favorite!” See their full reviews below.  

Punky Brewster (2021)
By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Punky Brewster is so much fun to watch! This iconic show from the 1980s is now rebooted with ten new episodes and even includes some of the original cast.

The new Punky Brewster is about the original Punky Brewster (Soleil Moon Frye) who is now grown up, with kids of her own, living in Chicago. While photographing the children at her old adoption center, she meets a girl named Izzy (Quinn Copeland) who reminds Punky so much of herself. Punky’s long-time friend Cherie (Cherie Johnson), also from the original show, asks her to watch Izzy until Cherie finds her the perfect family. Once they find the “perfect” family, will Punky let her go?

Knowing that this show is a reboot, I recommend watching the original series to appreciate all of the comedic references and become familiar with Punky’s backstory. Although it’s not necessary to do that and still enjoy the show.

I love that the show maintains all of the original characters, while also adding new characters, primarily Punky’s children. Punky’s family reflects the reality of today’s diverse family structure including divorced parents, biological and adopted children, different races as well as a very diverse set of personalities. The show includes not only the original star of Punky Brewster, Soleil Moon Frye, but also her best friend Cherie Johnson. Soleil Moon Frye provides so much energy and fun by displaying a more carefree nature and frequently screaming “Punky Power” (my favorite).

The importance of family, acceptance and having a place to call home are the key messages in this show. Like the original series, Punky Brewster covers several serious topics such as child abandonment, divorce, bullying and gender nonconformity. 

I give Punky Brewster 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. Adults will enjoy it, too. Punky Brewster is out now on Peacock, so look out for it!

Punky Brewster
Giana Nesmith, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 9

Punky Brewster is an amazing show with great messages and entertaining concepts. It’s a show that makes you laugh, and gives you an old familiar feeling, especially if you are a fan of the original show. This new Punky Brewster has the potential to be a favorite!

Punky Brewster is a reboot of the ’80s sitcom Punky Brewster. It focuses on a now grown-up Punky (Soleil Moon Frye), who is a single parent of three kids after her divorce from Travis (Freddie Prinze Jr.). At the local children’s adoption center, Punky meets a little girl named Izzy (Quinn Copeland) who reminds her of herself when she was younger. When Punky’s best friend Cherie (Cherie Johnson) asks Punky to look after Izzy while she searches for the right family to adopt her, Punky grows very fond of Izzy and finds it hard to let her go. Izzy makes a connection with Punky as well and finally feels like she has a family.

I really like how they use some references from the original show, such as Punky wearing two different shoes, and her catchphrases “Holy Macanoil” and “Punky Power.” Even though the show is a reboot, you don’t need to watch the original show to know what happened with Punky because they bring it up in a couple of episodes. I also like how the set is made to look like the rooms in the original show, such as the tree house from the original series. Punky’s oldest daughter, Hannah, has a room that looks just like Punky’s old bedroom. My favorite character in the show is Izzy because, even though she is a foster kid and doesn’t have much, she is very humble and, in each episode, we see how she teaches the family lots of things. In one episode, the kids feel like there is not enough room in the house for Izzy, but with Punky’s help, they decide Hannah will share her room with Izzy and they learn to be grateful for what they have.

Each episode has a great message; the one that stands out the most is that it’s okay to be different and to be true to yourself. You should know that in a couple of scenes Punky and Cherie are drinking adult beverages.

Punky Brewster is an incredible show to watch! I give it 5 out 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Punky Brewster is out now on Peacock. Go check it out!

Stray explores what it means to live as a being without status or security, following three strays as they embark on inconspicuous journeys through Turkish society. Zeytin, fiercely independent, embarks on adventures through the city at night; Nazar, nurturing and protective, easily befriends the humans around her; while Kartal, a shy puppy living on the outskirts of a construction site, finds companions in the security guards who care for her. The strays’ disparate lives intersect when they each form intimate bonds with a group of young Syrians with whom they share the streets. 

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Carlee S. comments, “Stray is a brilliant film about three beautiful dogs living on the streets of Istanbul, Turkey.  Director Elizabeth Lo gives a unique perspective that allows viewers to venture into dogs’ lives and learn a lot about the country of Turkey and the people there, as well. Through the eyes of the dogs we learn about their lives on the streets and the lives of others they interact with.” Joshitha B. adds, “The dog Zeytin is so adorable that no scene feels slow when this dog is in it. There is a particular scene which is incredibly impressive where Zeytin looks distraught and is nearly crying. These dogs have the right expression and demeanor, so credits go to Elizabeth Lo for directing in such a way that the dogs seem like actual actors.” See their full reviews below.

Stray
By Carlee S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Age 16

Stray is a brilliant film about three beautiful dogs living on the streets of Istanbul, Turkey.  Director Elizabeth Lo gives a unique perspective that allows viewers to venture into dogs’ lives and learn a lot about the country of Turkey and the people there, as well. Through the eyes of the dogs we learn about their lives on the streets and the lives of others they interact with.  We gain a better understanding of the people as we overhear conversations the citizens are having which tell us a lot about the personal lives of the people there and the living conditions. For both the dogs and some of the people, there is danger and the struggle to survive.  There are also touching moments. It is an unforgettable film that helps people understand a different part of the world, the people and animals that live there, and that they all have the same basic needs of food, shelter, and friendship. 

This documentary follows three dogs named Zeytin, Nazar and a puppy named Kartal. The camera follows the dogs at their level which is a very ingenious and a creative touch. As the camera rolls, we follow along and see how these dogs interact with other dogs and the humans they encounter. Not only do we get to experience a stray dog’s life, but the lives of a young group of boys also living on the streets. The dogs in Istanbul are allowed to roam around the city freely since the citizens fought to save them. We’re taken into these dogs’ lives and live it with them, seeing all the sights and sounds they see. 

One of my favorite scenes in Stray is when Zeytin is in the park and notices another dog approaching. You can tell from the beginning, when we first get to know Zeytin, that she is a sweet dog. She doesn’t seem to mind the other dogs she comes in contact with and is friendly towards them. Watching Zeytin and the other dogs in the park was very enjoyable. I just loved watching them run around and being very playful. It is a scene that could have been in any part of the world.  I also enjoyed watching the puppy, Kartal. The puppy’s expressions are very sweet and, the way people react to Kartal, it adds a nice touch to the film.

The message in this film is to step up for what you believe in. The citizens of Turkey made sure their voices were heard, so that dogs can freely roam, and are not to be held captive or destroyed. Every life is worth something. The dogs provide comfort to many people there. There are some warnings. Some scenes can be graphic that go with life on the streets. Some of the topics and language spoken by some of the people is also for older viewers.

I give Stray 5 out of 5 stars. I was glued to the screen and I am now a much bigger fan of documentaries after watching this film.  I plan to watch more in the future. I recommend this film to ages 13 to 20. Magnolia Pictures will release Stray in theaters and On Demand on March 5, 2021.

Stray
By Joshitha B.

Stray is a film with a unique concept that is very enlightening to watch from an outsider’s perspective. From the occasional pretty cinematography to the important issues this film highlights, Stray is an extremely well-executed documentary that I really enjoyed watching.  

Stray is a documentary following dogs in Istanbul and it really changes the narrative on how we view stray dogs by witnessing the daily lives of these uncontrollable creatures. This film invokes our empathy by documenting interactions between these stray dogs and humans in their community.

The film has lovely cinematography with plenty of pretty stills that catch your eye throughout the entire film. The aesthetic of this movie is really satisfying for the viewer. Since the main characters are dogs, there is little dialogue in the beginning, and yet the storytelling is very compelling.  The dog Zeytin is so adorable that no scene feels slow when this dog is in it. There is a particular scene which is incredibly impressive where Zeytin looks distraught and is nearly crying. These dogs have the right expression and demeanor, so credits go to Elizabeth Lo for directing in such a way that the dogs seem like actual actors.

The message of this film reflects on our own empathy for outsiders or “strays.” We all should do better to improve the lives of our furry friends globally.

I rate Stray 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Stray will be available on digital platforms March 5, 2021.

Fed up with the sexist and toxic status quo at her high school, a shy 16-year-old finds inspiration from her mother’s rebellious past and anonymously publishes a zine that sparks a school-wide, coming-of-rage revolution.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine S. comments, “I love the coming-of-age movie, Moxie! It has comedy, drama and a terrific message, while handling very serious topics.  The cast is perfect, and the music gives the film a lot of energy.”  See her full review below.

Moxie
By Katherine Schell, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love the coming-of-age movie, Moxie! It has comedy, drama and a terrific message, while handling very serious topics.  The cast is perfect, and the music gives the film a lot of energy.

Moxie is based on the novel by the same name by Jennifer Mathieu and follows a 16-year-old girl named Vivian (Hadley Robinson) who prefers to be under the radar. This all changes when Lucy (Alycia Pascual-Peña) comes to her high school. After witnessing Lucy “holding her head high” during an encounter with another student, Vivian notices all of the horrible ways that girls are being treated at her school and decides to publish an anonymous zine that sparks a fire in all of the other fed-up girls at her school.

Amy Poehler directs the movie and plays Vivian’s mom.  She also happens to be my favorite character, because she is very clever, inspiring and is not a “traditional mom.” The rest of the cast plays their characters so well. We see Vivian’s journey from follower to leader. Lucy is such a bold and confident woman, standing up for what is right. Seth (Nico Hiragra) comes across as a really cool love interest of Vivian’s and male ally to the female revolution. Patrick Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Mitchell Wilson is terrific, as I just hated him in the movie. The supporting characters are very diverse as we see people of all shapes, sizes and races, including a girl in a wheelchair, which I rarely see in movies, plus an all-girl band.

The key messages in this film are: to be the change you want to see, and friendship can support that change. You should know that the film has some mild profanity, shows underage drinking and handles some mature subjects.  

I give Moxie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 13 to 18, plus adults. It comes out on Netflix March 3, 2021.