Archives for June 2017

George Beard and Harold Hutchins are two overly imaginative pranksters who spend hours in a treehouse creating comic books. When their mean principal threatens to separate them into different classes, the mischievous boys accidentally hypnotize him into thinking that he’s a ridiculously enthusiastic, incredibly dimwitted superhero named Captain Underpants. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic By Benjamin P. comments, “Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie is an unexpectedly enjoyable family film filled with inventive animation, hilarious humor and charming characters.” Alejandra G. adds, “I freaked out when I went to see this film because I have been a loyal fan reading all the Captain Underpants stories and books since I was little. I’m so happy that they have brought these books to life and have taken another step to continue the story of the series.” Tristan T. wraps it up with, “What I appreciate about this film is the ongoing theme of friendship and the fun of using your imagination.” See their full reviews below.

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie

By Benjamin P, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 11

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie is an unexpectedly enjoyable family film filled with inventive animation, hilarious humor and charming characters. An adaptation of the bestselling book series by Dav Pilkey and directed by David Soren, this film chronicles George and Harold, two best friends who love mischief and making comics. Their mean principal Mr. Krupp finally catches them pulling a prank and vows to wipe out their friendship by placing them in separate classes.

George and Harold retaliate by placing Krupp in a trance and they turn him into their signature superhero created for their own comic books, Captain Underpants. George and Harold know how to bring Mr. Krupp back but realize that if they do, he’ll separate them. As Captain Underpants struggles to pretend to be a principal, danger looms over the school in the form of a mysterious new science teacher with an evil hidden agenda.

This film is a pleasant surprise. It dives more into the friendship between George (Kevin Hart) and Harold (Thomas Middleditch) than the books do and sidelines Captain Underpants (Ed Helms) to a smaller role. Readers know and love the character of Captain Underpants and may be angered by this decision. By giving you more exposition about Harold and George, the film makes itself more accessible to those who have not read the books. This film is quite different from the books, but has enough callbacks to its source material to still feel linked to it.

The animation is very colorful, bursting with bright and warm colors that will be very appealing to younger audiences. I appreciate the different animation styles used to showcase George and Harold’s infinite imaginations. It’s very creative and makes it stand out from other animated films.

This film is very funny. It’s surprisingly clever for a movie with “underpants” in the title. It’s a film that will have the whole audience laughing. These laughs are well-earned and come at a good pace.

I give Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie an age rating of 4 to 12 for some crude humor. The lesson is never let anyone change who you are. Our heroes constantly see their ideas and creativity challenged and destroyed by Mr. Krupp. He never lets them be creative and instead resorts to confiscating all their comics because he doesn’t appreciate them. Having an imagination is an important part of growing up and helps George and Harold solve their problems. I rate this film 3.5 out of 5 stars. It opens in theaters June 2, 2017 so be sure to go check it out.

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie
By Alejandra G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

I freaked out when I went to see this film because I have been a loyal fan reading all the Captain Underpants stories and books since I was little. I’m so happy that they have brought these books to life and have taken another step to continue the story of the series. This film is extremely well illustrated. The animations are very well designed and very realistic.

The film is about two overly imaginative children named George and Harold, who hypnotize their principal into thinking he’s the incredible superhero they created named Captain Underpants. Along with this comes event after event that makes this adventure unforgettable for these children as they accomplish their dreams watching their very own superhero come to life.

My favorite scene is when they first hypnotize the principal and start playing with him. For example, they tell him to turn into a chicken, a dolphin and many more things. While doing this, they have an awesome idea that will change their lives forever. Bring the superhero they made to life and achieve their goal of watching their invention live. So they tell him to turn into Captain Underpants and they freak out and get very excited. I love this scene because it shows the creativity these two kids have and how they think. It also shows how the makers of the film are so creative at developing the storyline. They could have just made the film based on one of the books, but instead, they go out of their way to create a more interesting plot that makes the film truly stand out!

The important message that I gleaned from this film is to never underestimate the power of laughter. We may view a bad situation or a problem with a bad attitude or with sadness. If we deal with the problem with a bad attitude, the result will not be good.  But if we look at it from a positive point of view, the result will be better and greater. I believe it’s awesome that they teach little kids this message. It’s something they can learn and grow up with and eventually apply it to their own life! I rate the film 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 6 to 13. You can watch this film in theaters starting June 2 so be sure to check it out!

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie

By Tristan T., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie is sure to kick off many kids’ summer breaks with lots of laughs (especially if potty jokes are funny to you). I was never a fan of the Captain Underpants books, so I have to say I am not a big fan of this film.  I feel it lacks plot and humor.

What I appreciate about this film is the ongoing theme of friendship and the fun of using your imagination.  Best friends, Harold and George grow a strong friendship through making comic books and pulling pranks at their “boring” elementary school.  Through some odd force, their comic book hero, Captain Underpants, comes to life.  He soon helps the boys rid the school of an even greater threat than their school principal, Professor Poopypants.

This feature animation from DreamWorks has a great voice-over cast.  This, by the way, is my favorite part of the film.  Kevin Hart plays one of the main characters, George Beard.  But, my favorite character is his partner in prank-playing crime, Harold Hutchins (Thomas Middleditch).  This character is very relatable, funny and true.  And, since I like drawing and illustrating, I found an instant connection with him.

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie is written by Nicholas Stoller, although it is based on the Epic Novels by Dav Pilkey.  You might remember Nicholas Stoller from previous screenplays he has written, including Storks, The Muppets and Gulliver’s Travels – to name a few.  The movie is right in line with the books and gives you insight into the concept origin.

My favorite part is Harold and George’s tree-house.  This is where the friends spend so much time developing their comic books.  It is such a cool tree house with so many moving parts. It made me want to go home and add to my own.

This film is rated PG for mild rude humor.  If you are a fan of the Captain Underpants books, you will enjoy this film.  I recommend it for ages 4 to 11 and I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars.  Catch it in theaters everywhere, June 2.

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

This collection features two episodes: Overloaded where the Autobots must split their forces to battle two different, but both dangerous, Decepticons. While Optimus takes his team to the Artic Circle to face off against Polarclaw, Bumblee and his team must battle against Overload, an ancient Decepticon who has a grudge against Optimus. Second episode is Decepticon Island where the Autobot teams are reunited, but all is not well as they discover that Steeljaw is leading a Decepticon guerilla army. Though outnumbered, the Autobots will have to defeat Steeljaw’s army if they want to keep the world safe. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jolleen comments, ““This movie has great animations! The battle scenes are very detailed and it is pleasing to see that there are diverse types of conflict. In this film, the conflict isn’t always good vs. bad.” Arjun N. adds, “Transformers Robots in Disguise is a great double-feature package. The animation and voice acting are really good. Transformers fans will rejoice at this movie.” See their full reviews below.

Transformers Robots In Disguise Collection: Overloaded & Deception Island
By Jolleen Mejia, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

This movie has great animations! The battle scenes are very detailed and it is pleasing to see that there are diverse types of conflict. In this film, the conflict isn’t always good vs. bad. Sometimes it is conflict within the team about who should lead, or even who loves conflicts. The plotline is awesome as well. It really held my interest.

This is a film where the autobots (Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Strongarm, Sideswipe, Fixit) fight against the Decepticons. The goal of the Decepticons is to take over Earth and inhabit the planet for themselves. The autobots protect the humans and try to prevent any damage that the Decepticons might make.

Bumblebee (Will Friedle) is the leader of the autobots. Will Friedle’s voice sounds strong and makes you think that he knows what he’s doing. Optimus Prime (Peter Cullen) is the mentor of Bumblebee and was the leader before Bumblebee. Peter Cullen’s voice sounds old, making Optimus Prime seem wise and experienced. The casting director really found great voice talent for these roles!

The animation is spot on. All the movements are easy to follow, the quality of the movie is great and the backdrops are nicely done as well. Everything is very detailed and looks quite realistic. My favorite part is when the whole autobot team works together and comes up with a strategy to defeat the polar bear Decepticon. It is amazing to see them planning and then actually following through with their plan until it works out in the end. I loved seeing the autobots accomplish something together.

The message of this film is to stay strong, focused and remember that teamwork is important. Bumblebee and Optimus prime fight over something so small, but it almost tears apart their friendship. It almost costs the lives of their comrades. But they stay focused, work together and are successful in their mission. The autobots are very moral characters who fight for the greater good. The film tries to influence people to be like the autobots and teaches people how to react in times of trouble.

This film is well thought out. I give it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for the ages 5 to 12. It has a positive message that everyone should hear. I recommend that parents watch it with together with their child. This is available on DVD May 30, 2017 so, go check it out.

Transformers Robots In Disguise Collection: Overloaded & Deception Island
By Arjun Nair, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Transformers Robots in Disguise is a great double-feature package. The animation and voice acting are really good. Transformers fans will rejoice at this movie.

The double-feature follows two stories. In the first one, “Overloaded,” Optimus Prime (Peter Cullen) is powered down and splits the team in two with Bumblebee in defense of the junkyard. Bumblebee (Will Friedle) runs into Overload (Dave Fennoy), a Decepticon, while the rest of the team runs into Polarclaw. In the second one, “Decepticon Island,” Bumblebee, in lead of the team, discovers information which leads to Decepticon Island where the Mini-Bots are held captive. The team attempt to free the Mini-Bots. However, the plan fails when Steeljaw (Troy Baker) captures the team.

Peter Cullen as Optimus Prime steals the show with a voice of iron. His portrayal of leadership works well, too and he is my favorite character. Will Friedle as Bumblebee presents an immature attitude to Optimus especially when he disagrees with Optimus. Dave Fennoy as Overload is funny with his finesse of theater. Troy Baker as Steeljaw is deceptive with his use of tricks to climb the power ladder of the Decepticon. Darren Criss as Sideswipe displays a constant, competitive banter with Strongarm, who is another Autobot. Constance Zimmer as Strongarm portrays her banter with Sideswipe quite well.  Khary Payton as Grimlock, a Dinobot transformer, provides excellent comedic relief. Mitchell Whitfield as Fixit,  is a Mini-Bot who expresses his care to his fellow captured Mini-Bots.

From the emotions portrayed in the characters’ faces to the fluid action, the animation by Amrish Sharma is impressive. His handling of the characters’ emotions between Optimus Prime and Bumblebee in the second feature, “Decepticon Island,” is an example. My favorite scene is when Steeljaw corners the Autobots due to his impressive character introduction. My only problem with this double-feature is the lack of introduction of the characters and the lack of history about the different types of robotic characters.

The movie’s message is all about the importance of teamwork. Despite Optimus Prime’s weakness, the team works together to complete the mission with tremendous success. I give this movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 6 to 12 because the action scenes between the two robot factions appeal to the younger audiences. This DVD collection releases on May 30th, so check it out if you want to see some impressive animation.

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

DIAPER DUDE: The Ultimate Dad’s Guide to Surviving the First Two Years

By Chris Pegula with Frank Meyer

On Sale May 9, 2017

Chris is the founder of Diaper Dude, a popular parenting brand that was born from the idea that fatherhood doesn’t have to be complicated or uncool, and a proud father of three. Picking up where his first book From Dude to Dad left off, this new guide is filled with humorous takes on fatherhood from the front lines to help new dads master the art of fatherhood. A new Dad can learn how to wrap his baby like a burrito (the art of swaddling) and learn other great things like how to prep for the big day (for new das-to-be).  The book is completely full of useful advice, info and fun stories! I highly recommend for all new Dads and Dads-to-be!

About the author: Chris Pegula is the creator of the Diaper Dude brand, America’s most high-profile line of hip gear for cool dads. He lives with his wife and three children in Los Angeles. His first book is From Dude to Dad. Learn more at http://www.chrispegula.com/

SLEEPLESS NIGHTS AND KISSES FOR BREAKFAST: Reflections on Fatherhood 

By Matteo Bussola

On Sale May 9, 2017

For readers of Anne Lamott, Brian Gresko and Catherine Newman, Matteo Bussola chronicles the growth of his three daughters, Virginia, Ginevra, and Melania, as well as his own transformation through their experiences in candidly poignant stories and the briefest of glimpses. Sleepless Nights and Kisses for Breakfast is an honest and tender exploration of everyday life that will elicit laughter, empathy, and warm, fuzzy happiness.

This was a fun read and I like how it made me laugh out loud! I highly recommend as a gift for Dad this upcoming holiday!

About the author: Matteo Bussola is an architect-turned-cartoonist who lives in Verona, Italy with his wife, Paola, and their three young daughters. He writes about his family’s adventures on Facebook, and his posts have gone viral, as they serve as moving reminders to people all around the world to embrace the present and value every moment they share with their loved ones.

This is such a cute picture book! Daddies Are Awesome by Meredith Costain and Illustrated by Polona Lovsin has really sweet images! I love Bulldogs, as it is! I love how this celebrates all kinds of daddies and if Daddy is a dog lover…he will surely love to read this one with his little guy or girl! I highly recommend for ages 2-6 and their Dads this Father’s Day! This one is published by our friends at Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group.

Another great one from our friends at Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group. Daddy Depot by Chana Stiefel and Illustrated by Andy Snair is just a fun book! Ever thought about shopping for a New Dad? (But, you really know you have the best Dad!) This is a charming story and is loads of fun to read out loud. Guaranteed to make you smile! Perfect for ages 2-5 and their Dads too!

My Daddy Rules The World by Hope Anita Smith is also published by Macmillan’s Publishing Group and shows the special relationship between father and child. I love the moving, powerful poems and recommend this one for ages 4-9.

Last, but not least…Saturday with Daddy by Dan Andreasen and also published by Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group. I just love these adorable Father and Son Elephants! This is such a cute book for pre-schoolers. Recommend for ages 2-5.

Check out Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for even more great books for children!

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to feature this holiday!