You are here: Home / 2024 / Archives for February 2024

Archives for February 2024

Mosely, Feb. 23 Pet of the Week

February 21, 2024 By Leave a Comment
soooo cute!

Mosley is a diamond in the ruff who’s waiting for his forever person to see him as the jewel that he is! As you can see, he’s a volunteer favorite who’s wonderfully affectionate and small for a pittie—one volunteer calls him an apartment-size dog! He’s smart, eager to please and athletic—he races through the agility tunnel within seconds of being introduced to it! He knows some commands and is ready to learn more. Mosley came in as a stray in June, and he needs to go home. We can’t figure out why this charming 2-year-old hasn’t been adopted or fostered. You can help in that way! Speed the process to adopt or foster Mosely or any of our other pets by emailing PetAdopt@longbeach.gov or petfoster@longbeach.gov. You can also call (562) 570-4925. Our shelter hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 7700 E. Spring St. at the entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors. Ask for ID#A700728.

Filed Under: Pet Corner

Marvel at Over 40 Paintings from the James Irvine Swinden Family Collection on Public Display for the First Time at Casa Romantica

February 21, 2024 By Leave a Comment

San Clemente’s premiere cultural destination, Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, is pleased to announce the opening of its latest exhibition, “Madeline’s Treasures, Selections from the James Irvine Swinden Family Collection.” Featuring over 40 paintings from the Irvine Family Collection, “Madeline’s Treasures” invites viewers to experience a love letter of art from Mr. Swinden to his late wife Madeline. Open during visiting hours now through April 7th, this exhibit is the first time these paintings have been on public display.

“We are honored that Mr. Irvine Swinden chose Casa Romantica to host the first public exhibit of these paintings,” shared Kylie Travis, Executive Director, Operations and Programming at Casa Romantica. “Madeline’s Treasures is truly one of a kind, and we are excited to share these wonderful examples of contemporary California Impressionism, which Madeline and Mr. Swinden collected while attending many of the California plein air invitationals held over the last quarter century.”

An opening night ceremony for the exhibit was held on January 11th and was attended by donors, special guests, and members of the Casa Romantica Board. Living artists whose works are featured in the collection, including Rick J. Delanty, Michael Obermeyer, John Cosby, and Aimee Erickson, also attended the opening event. As a tribute to the late Madeline Swinden, Casa Romantica and the art gallery were transformed with romantic pink lighting and filled with the sounds of Madeline’s favorite songs. The gallery opened to the public on January 12th, with over a hundred and thirty members of the local community visiting to experience this special art exhibit.

Speaking at the opening event for Madeline’s Treasures, Mr. Swinden shared, “I wanted Madeline’s collection to have its own spotlight. When I was approached by Casa to do the exhibition, I thought, ‘Let’s do something a little different.’ The vast majority of these paintings came from our home, and it is my privilege to share them with you.”

Casa Romantica also launched Casa Romantica After Hours, an all-new series that kicked off on January 18th. The monthly event will give visitors access to a variety of activities and entertainment after Casa Romantica’s regular visiting hours conclude. Available only to ticket holders, visitors can enjoy live music performances by talented local artists, take in the breathtaking sunset, indulge in a refreshing beverage from the outdoor bar, and become immersed in Madeline’s Treasures.

Casa Romantica remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving and promoting Casa Romantica’s rich heritage, arts, and education programs. To donate, learn more, or get involved, please visit CasaRomantica.org and follow on social media at @CasaRomanticaSC. Due to ongoing work by the City of San Clemente, please be advised that there is limited parking available. Valet will be offered at select events.

Jean Stern, Director Emeritus of The Irvine Museum (left) and James Irvine Swinden (right).
Photo Courtesy of Casa Romantica

Credit: Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

How to Choose the Best Paw Balm for Your Dog?

February 21, 2024 By Leave a Comment

Dogs use their paws for everything from walking to digging to communicating. But paws can easily become dry, cracked, and irritated. Paw balms provide nourishing protection to keep your pup’s paws healthy in any conditions. This article will help you pick the ideal balm to soothe and repair your dog’s hardworking paws.

Signs Your Dog’s Paws Need More Care

Watch for these clues that it’s time to start using paw balm:

  • Dry, flaky, peeling paw pads
  • Cracked paw pads that bleed or get infected
  • Limping or licking paws due to irritation
  • Paw pad hyperkeratosis causing thick calluses
  • Constant chewing or gnawing at their paws
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold surfaces indoors and out

Dogs most prone to paw problems include outdoor working breeds, dogs in cold climates, senior dogs, and breeds with thin fur on feet. To protect your furry friend’s paws, especially in harsh conditions, consider using the best paw balm for dogs to moisturize and provide a protective barrier against the elements.

Benefits of Using Paw Balms

Regular use of dog paw balms provides many benefits:

  • Soothes cracked, painful paws
  • Hydrates and softens dry, rough pads
  • Creates a protective moisturizing layer
  • Prevents ice, snow and salt from damaging paws
  • Allows healing of calluses, burns, and wounds
  • Reduces infection risk in damaged paw tissue
  • Seals out external irritants and allergens
  • Calms inflammation and stops incessant licking/chewing

Balms make walks, playtime, and other activities more comfortable for dogs prone to paw problems.

What to Look for in Paw Balm Ingredients?

The most effective and nourishing paw balms contain all natural ingredients like:

  • vitamin E – Powerful antioxidant that accelerates healing
  • Beeswax or soy wax – Creates protective barrier
  • Shea butter – Intense hydration for dry skin
  • Coconut oil – Soothes cracked skin with lauric acid
  • Olive, hemp, or sunflower oil – Provides essential fatty acids

Avoid pet balms with:

  • Artificial fragrances and dyes
  • Petroleum jelly with no skin benefits
  • Irritating preservatives like parabens
  • Beeswax with no certified organic sourcing

Seeking simple balms with minimal ingredients ensures safety if licked off by dogs.

Comparing Texture of Paw Balms

Paw balms come in a range of formulations, offering different benefits:

Thicker butters and waxes:

  • Long lasting protection for harsh conditions
  • Better for severe dryness and cracking
  • Stays on pads better than oily balms
  • Somewhat messy upon application

Oils and salves:

  • Deeply moisturize and soften pads
  • Absorbs quickly without greasy residue
  • Won’t stain light carpets as much
  • Provides less protection for extreme weather

Look for balms marketed specifically for dog paws, which are safer and more effective than human hand creams.

Application Tips and Frequency

Applying paw balm takes a little patience but becomes a quick routine:

  • Start with clean, dry paws for best absorption
  • Rub a small amount of balm evenly between pads and around edges
  • Massage balm into any cracked areas, encouraging healing
  • Use before walks or outdoor play for preventive protection
  • Reapply balm 2–3 times per week or more often as needed
  • Monitor pads closely and discontinue use if irritation develops

Carry balm on walks to reapply after water play, muddy hikes, or sidewalk ice melt exposure.

Integrating Paw Care into Your Dog’s Routine

Make balm application rewarding with praise and treats. Combine with other care:

  • Rub balm soothingly while trimming nails to reduce stress
  • Apply after bath time while grooming fur and ears
  • Have kids help rub it in during bonding time
  • Do a full spa treatment of massage, brushing, balm, dental care
  • Pair with joint supplements if arthritis also causes soreness

Developing a consistent nurturing routine makes paw balm application faster.

Choosing Dispenser Styles

Paw balms come in tubes, tins, roll-ons, or push-up chapstick styles. Considerations:

Tubes:

  • Dispense controlled amounts for less mess
  • Offer flip caps or screw tops
  • Recyclable plastic or one-time investment metal tubes

Tins:

  • Allow easy scooping with fingers
  • Stay clean inside bags, unlike open tubes
  • Least expensive per ounce

Roller balls:

  • Controlled dispensing avoids waste
  • Built in applicator rubs balm in
  • Can pick up dirt/debris if rolled on ground

Chapstick types:

  • Fun, inexpensive, easy to carry
  • Natural to twist up bottom
  • Small amount makes reapplication needed

Pick packaging that best suits your preferences, dog’s needs, and planned use locations.

Caring for Your Dog’s Paws Year Round

Paw care should be part of your dog’s health routine all year long:

Summer Care

  • Protect pads from hot pavements and ground
  • Heal cracked pads prone to infection
  • Hydrate dry, rough spots
  • Soothe bee stings, burns, and blisters

Fall and Winter Care

  • Shield pads from salt, ice melt chemicals
  • Prevent burning and bleeding cracks
  • Keep paws hydrated in low humidity heat
  • Smooth rough calluses caused by ice and snow

Spring Care

  • Repair damage from winter weather
  • Heal abrasions from playing outside
  • Lock in moisture after muddy hikes
  • Protect tender paw pads early in season

With the right paw balm as part of your dog’s care regimen, you can keep their paws supple and protected year-round.

When to Call Your Veterinarian About Paw Issues?

Contact your vet if your dog experiences:

  • Limping or refusing to walk on a paw, indicating injury
  • Bleeding cracks or pads that won’t heal with conservative care
  • Swollen, red or inflamed paws suggesting infection
  • Excessive licking/chewing of paws unresolved with balm therapy
  • Skin irritation or reactions around paws after applying a new product

Your vet can assess for underlying problems like fractures, parasites, or foreign material stuck in pads. Prescription medications may be needed alongside paw balms in some cases.

Picking the Perfect Paw Balm for Your Pup

With so many paw balm products available, it takes a little detective work to pick the ideal formula. Analyze ingredients, understand your dog’s needs, and consult your vet. Aim for simple, vet-recommended balms free of harsh chemicals.

Applied regularly, nourishing balms restore softness, protect sensitive paw pads, and prevent many problems. Make paw care an essential component of showing your dog how much you care.

Filed Under: Pet Corner

The Road to Recovery: 8 Addiction Milestones

February 21, 2024 By Leave a Comment

Embarking on the journey to recovery from addiction is a monumental step that signifies courage, hope, and the determination to embrace a new chapter in life.

As individuals navigate this path, recognizing and celebrating each milestone achieved becomes a source of motivation and a testament to their resilience.

This article outlines eight pivotal milestones on the road to recovery, offering insight and encouragement to those seeking to reclaim their lives from the grips of addiction. These eight steps are:

1. Acknowledgment and Decision to Change

The first and most crucial milestone is acknowledging the addiction and deciding to make a change. This moment of realization is a powerful catalyst for transformation, marking the beginning of a journey toward healing and self-discovery.

2. Understanding the Nature of Addiction

Early in the recovery process, it’s essential to gain a clear understanding of the nature of addiction, including the differences between various substances, such as meth vs. amphetamine. Both substances are stimulants, but they have distinct properties and effects on the brain. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their recovery and fosters a deeper comprehension of the challenges they may face.

3. Commitment to a Treatment Plan

Committing to a treatment plan tailored to individual needs is the next significant milestone. Whether it involves inpatient rehab, outpatient therapy, support groups, or a combination, finding and sticking to a plan is a pivotal step toward recovery.

4. Building a Support Network

Recovery is rarely a journey you can take alone. That’s why building a robust support network of family, friends, peers in recovery, and healthcare professionals is important. This network provides encouragement, understanding, and accountability, essential for sustained recovery.

5. Developing Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Replacing the dependency on substances with healthy coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, and other triggers is a vital milestone. Finding positive outlets is key to long-term recovery, whether through exercise, meditation, creative pursuits, or other stress-relief activities.

6. Rebuilding Relationships

Addiction often strains relationships with loved ones. A significant milestone in the recovery journey is rebuilding these relationships through open communication, amends, and restored trust.

7. Rediscovering Self

Addiction can overshadow one’s identity, dreams, and passions. A crucial milestone in recovery is the rediscovery of self. This entails exploring interests, rekindling old passions, and setting new goals. This process contributes to a sense of purpose and fulfillment beyond addiction.

8. Maintaining Sobriety and Embracing Growth

The ongoing maintenance of sobriety, coupled with a commitment to personal growth, marks an ongoing milestone in the recovery journey. This includes continuous self-reflection, learning, and adapting to life’s challenges without reverting to old habits.

Conclusion

Recovery is not just about leaving addiction behind; it’s about moving forward, reclaiming one’s life, and rediscovering the joy and potential that lie ahead.

So, you must understand that a series of significant milestones mark the road to recovery, each representing a step forward in the journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

From the initial acknowledgment of the need for change to the ongoing commitment to growth and sobriety, these milestones are beacons of hope and progress.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

The Taste of Things * A Leisurely, Luminous Portrait Of Love, Culture And Cuisine, The Taste Of Things Is A Feast For The Eyes

February 19, 2024 By Leave a Comment

The relationship between Eugenie, an esteemed cook, and Dodin, the gourmet she has been working for over the last 20 years. Growing fonder of one another, their bond turns into a romance and gives rise to delicious dishes that impress even the world’s most illustrious chefs. When Dodin is faced with Eugenie’s reluctance to commit to him, he decides to start cooking for her.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eshaan M. comments, “A leisurely, luminous portrait of love, culture and cuisine, The Taste of Things is a feast for the eyes. It’s all about partnership through a shared passion, conveying feelings through fewer words and baked Alaska.” See his full review below.

The Taste of Things
By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

A leisurely, luminous portrait of love, culture and cuisine, The Taste of Things is a feast for the eyes. It’s all about partnership through a shared passion, conveying feelings through fewer words and baked Alaska. With such deep themes and beautiful visuals, no wonder it’s France’s selection for this year’s Academy Awards.

The Taste of Things is a tough movie to summarize. It’s about so much more than its plot… but here goes. The film takes place entirely in a 19th century French manor, mostly in its warmly-lit, wood-accented kitchen and centers on the bonds between the characters. Dodin Bouffant (Benoit Magimel), an esteemed gourmet partly based on real-life gastronome Jean Brillat-Savarin, oversees the meal, helps with the cooking and visits with his group of friends. His partner in the kitchen, Eugenie (Juliette Binoche), beams as she whips up dozens of French culinary marvels. They have two assistants, who seem more like daughters, the teen Violette (Galatea Bellugi) and her niece Pauline (Bonnie Chagneau-Ravoire). This scene unfolds each day for years. The film follows Dodin’s and Eugenie’s romance as it evolves from unspoken partnership to marriage to separation by illness, as well as how the younger members of the kitchen grow.

Director Tran Anh Hung opens The Taste of Things with a 38-minute long tracking-shot scene of the characters preparing an intricate meal with zero technology (it is the 1880s, after all), relishing every step of the way. I found it so satisfying to watch that I didn’t pay any heed to its length, though this may not be the case for some viewers, as the only lines said are “Put the veal in the oven” and a couple directions like this. I actually enjoyed getting to know the characters by watching what they do and observing their body language. There’s many more scenes like this one, none 38 minutes long, though. The film does have a bit of a languid pace, which takes some getting used to and might not suit some viewers’ taste (pun intended). The few events that happen outside the kitchen happen either in the bedroom, in the living room or the adjacent garden. On another note, Dodin and Eugenie’s relationship is a centerpiece of this film, and Magimel and Binoche as Dodin and Eugenie spellbind with their subtle yet powerful acting and palpable bond. Dodin has proposed to Eugénie a number of times over their 20 years together, to no avail. She says marriage is not right for them, because their bond is one of mutual respect and tenderness. The openness with which they discuss love is rare in modern films, as is their clarity on the matter — truly a mature romance. Additionally, the interactions between Binoche and Chagneau-Ravoire as Pauline are a delight to watch. Pauline’s passion for food is shown in a scene where she names each of the two dozen items in a dish and when she nearly cries after tasting a baked Alaska; Eugenie sees herself in the young girl and takes her under her wing. Jonathan Ricquebourg’s mouth-watering and skillful cinematography — tracking people as if walking beside them, sometimes peering into pots, and sitting at the same table as Dodin’s “suite” of friends — along with Tran Anh Huang’s careful direction adds an indescribable realism to the film. It’s a film that will make you hunger for more.

The Taste of Things is a film about indulgence — in food, in love, in family. It also shows viewers that truly powerful relationships are those that transcend labels and that are bound by shared love for one another and, in this case, a shared passion. It shows viewers that food is inextricably tied to love, life and joy. Be forewarned that the film does contain scenes with partial nudity and smoking.

I give The Taste of Things 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Taste of Things releases on February 9, 2024 in theaters and is an Oscar nominee. 

Trailer:

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Eclipse, Feb. 16 Pet of the Week

February 16, 2024 By Leave a Comment
awwwww

Eclipse is a lovable, smart girl who needs out now, with a person experienced in handling a dog of her size, breed and energy level. Eclipse was found as a stray last September and began to suffer kennel stress and reaction to other dogs while on a leash. She was adopted and returned within a week because of her reactiveness. She’s also developed treatable medical issues. Eclipse was assigned a date for humane euthanasia if she wasn’t adopted again or pulled by a rescue, but loving volunteers and staff at the shelter pleaded for an extension, which has been set for Feb. 25. She’s only a year old and deserves a life—better an Eclipse than a sunset. You can speed up the process to help Eclipse and any of our other pets by emailing PetAdopt@longbeach.gov or petfoster@longbeach.gov. You can also call (562) 570-4925. Even better, stop by during Long Beach Animal Care Services’ walk-in hours every Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Our shelter is located at 7700 E. Spring St. Ask for ID #A706162 to meet Eclipse. We’re at capacity, and everyone needs homes!

Filed Under: Pet Corner

Orion and the Dark * A Family Friendly Film That Includes Various Types Of Emotions Such As Sad, Happy, Afraid And More

February 15, 2024 By Leave a Comment

A boy with an active imagination faces his fears on an unforgettable journey through the night with his new friend: a giant, smiling creature named Dark.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avalynn G. comments, “The film Orion and the Dark is a family friendly film that includes various types of emotions such as sad, happy, afraid and more.  I love the animation and the contrast between the light and dark.” See her full review below.  

Orion and the Dark

By Avalynn G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

The film Orion and the Dark is a family friendly film that includes various types of emotions such as sad, happy, afraid and more.  I love the animation and the contrast between the light and dark. 

The storyline follows a boy named Orion (Jacob Temblay). Orion is terrified of the dark until one night an entity named Dark comes to his house to show him there is no reason to be afraid. He takes Orion with him to show him his job. In the process, Dark takes Orion to see the other night entities. Everytime he goes to see all the night entities’ jobs he ends up messing them up. Orion explains to the other night entities how Light is amazing and Dark is bad. Dark overhears him and thinks nobody likes him. All the other night entities quit because they want to see how the Light is. Dark has to do his job all by himself now. Dark doesn’t want to do his job alone so he goes into the light and disappears. Orion gets all the night entities back together to save Dark. To do that dream goes in his imagination and finds Dark there. In the end Orion likes the dark and appreciates them now because without dark it was too light.

My favorite part of this film is when Dark takes Orion to see his job. I think it is so cool to see Dark and Orion fly through the sky. I also enjoy watching the night entities doing their job. I especially love Dream’s job. It is amazing how Dream goes into people’s imagination and makes their dreams out of something that has happened in their life. It is very surprising when the audience realizes that Orion and the Dark is a story that future Orion is telling his daughter, explaining how he gets over his fear of the dark.

The film’s message is to face your fears because if you don’t you will miss out on life. At the end, Orion faces his fear! He just does it and he feels better. He feels like he can accomplish and do anything now. 

I give Orion And The Dark 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12.  This film starts streaming on Netflix February 2, 2024.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Mean Girls * Back In An Entertaining Modern Day Adaptation For A New Generation Of Fans 

February 15, 2024 By Leave a Comment

Cady Heron is a hit with the Plastics, an A-list girl clique at her new school. But everything changes when she makes the mistake of falling for Aaron Samuels, the ex-boyfriend of alpha Plastic Regina George.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Tiana S. comments, “Get in losers! The iconic Mean Girls is back in its new modern day adaptation for a new generation of fans to enjoy. As a brilliant combination of the 2004 movie and the Broadway musical, this film is stunning, entertaining and the perfect movie to start the New Year!” Sydney S. adds, “I like the musical remake film Mean Girls because of its interesting plot and enjoyable characters. It’s very relatable for teenagers and hilariously entertaining to watch.” Valerie R. wraps it up with, “Do you have what it takes to be on top of the social food chain? Join the clique, the Plastics, and get ready to watch the reimagined, iconic 2004 Mean Girls movie this winter with friends and family!” See their full reviews below.

Mean Girls (2024)

By Tiana S, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Get in losers! The iconic Mean Girls is back in its new modern day adaptation for a new generation of fans to enjoy. As a brilliant combination of the 2004 movie and the Broadway musical, this film is stunning, entertaining and the perfect movie to start the New Year! 

Mean Girls borrows the same storyline as the original film, with plenty of plot twists. The film is presented as a story narrated by Janice (Auli’i Cravalho) and Damien (Jaquel Spivey). It follows Cady Heron (Angourie Rice), a new student at North Shore High School who moved to the US from Kenya. She makes friends with Janice and Damien, and eventually crosses paths with Regina George (Reneé Rapp), Gretchen Weiners (Bebe Wood) and Karen Shetty (Avantika), also known as “The Plastics.” When Cady is sent to spy on The Plastics by Janice and Damien, it sets off a series of chain reactions including drama, betrayal, and getting hit by a bus.

Fans of both the original Mean Girls movie and the Mean Girls Broadway musical will not be disappointed. My favorite song was “Someone Gets Hurt” sung by Renee Rapp. From her gorgeous vocals and the beautiful scenery, this performance is so mesmerizing that it could have been a stand-alone music video. I love that they include other songs from the Broadway show like “Apex Predator” and “Revenge Party” as well as new ones. I also love the special cameo appearances and newly discovered facts about the original characters; both of which really add depth to the film. I love how the movie includes things like social media and other references to things unavailable in 2004. I watched this film in theaters and there were so many places where I just wanted to pause or rewind it because they were so mind blowing. This is a movie I would love to see again!

The film’s message is to be yourself and not get caught up with the wrong people. Cady was so fed up of “living the life” with The Plastics that she betrays her true friends and loses the smart and sweet girl she originally was. Parents should be aware that there is foul language as well as suggestive topics and special effects that are so realistic they will make you gasp.

I give Mean Girls 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to18, plus adults. Be sure to watch after the credits for a very short post credits scene. Be sure to check out Mean Girls in theaters now!

Mean Girl
By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

I like the musical remake film Mean Girls because of its interesting plot and enjoyable characters. It’s very relatable for teenagers and hilariously entertaining to watch.

The film follows Cady who moves to a new town where a notorious popular clique runs the local high school. She becomes close with them to spy on them for her other friends and get closer to a guy. In the process, her acting isn’t as fake anymore.

The main characters are Cady Heron (Angourie Rice), Janis ‘Imi’ike (Auli’i Cravalho), Regina George (Reneé Rapp), Damian Hubbard (Jaquel Spivey), Karen Shetty (Avantika), Gretchen Wieners (Bebe Wood) and Aaron Samuels (Christopher Briney). The casting is perfect in the film. The actors are not only wonderful, but they portray the characters in the original movie. They all have different and unique personalities. Mean Girls has many musical numbers. The characters randomly break out into song, which is a bit cheesy at some points, but it makes it stand apart from the original movie. The camerawork is magnificent because it captures the whole setting of the kids at school and their personal interactions. The lighting really stand out during the musical numbers where it enhances the contrast between the singer and the rest of the cast. When Regina is singing, she is illuminated while the rest of the cast is standing still, unlit and frozen. I applaud the producer, Tina Fey, who also plays Ms. Norbury. Speaking of a previous cast member, there is a special cameo appearance of the original Cady Heron by Lindsay Lohan. I recommend watching the original Mean Girls (2004) because there are many iconic scenes that are included in this film. The inclusion of those scenes makes me appreciate the movie even more. My favorite part of the film is its humor. There is a lot of it and it made me laugh a lot while watching it. Important to mention is that the humor is all based on things that today’s teens can relate to. The term “text slang” is used as well as other new and trending concepts and words.

The film’s message is to be yourself and don’t pretend to be someone you’re not. Cady wants to become like Regina, but she learns that her true self is what makes her special. This film has foul language and the use of many inappropriate terms.

I give Mean Girls 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Mean Girls releases in theaters January 12, 202

Mean Girls
By Valerie R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic , age 10

Do you have what it takes to be on top of the social food chain? Join the clique, the Plastics, and get ready to watch the reimagined, iconic 2004 Mean Girls movie this winter with friends and family!

Cady (Angourie Rice) is the new kid at North Shore High, where she befriends Janice (Auli’i Cravalho) and Damian (Jaquel Spivey).  Regina George (Renee Rapp), Karen (Avantika Vandanapu) and Gretchen (Bebe Wood) take Cady in as one of the Plastics. When Cady falls for Regina’s ex she finds herself in her cross hairs and, while being part of the Plastics, Cady betrays her true friends Janice and Damian. Through the film, Cady realizes that she was wrong and that should just be herself and make it up to Janice and Damian. She learns that everyone is special and should be recognized for that.

What I enjoy the most about this film are the stunning show tunes. I love the catchy rhythm and voices of the actors! My favorite song is “Someone Gets Hurt.” I also really like the costume designs. The costumes have a modern Y2K style, which Gen Z teens can relate to. Another thing worth mentioning is the cast. Each actor plays their character perfectly and has their own spin on the classic characters. For example, Bebe Wood allows the audience to feel the emotions of Gretchen on a deeper level. When Regina bosses her around, Gretchen gets fed up with having to deal with Regina to the point that she doesn’t let Regina sit with them at lunch when she breaks one of the Plastics rules. Kudos to the casting director. I really love how this film reimagines the original Mean Girls. I love how they keep the iconic lines and songs in this film. Lastly I love the set designs, especially those during the musical numbers that are bright and on theme.

The film’s message is to focus on yourself and be nice because everyone in this world just wants to coexist. This film teaches us that we are special in our own way and we should not try to be someone we are not. We should not have to change who we are just to fit in. Please be advised that there is harsh language and other age-inappropriate content in this film.

I give Mean Girls 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Mean Girls is available in theaters now.

Trailer:

Filed Under: Media Reviews
« Previous Page
Next Page »