Archives for November 2024

Spellbound follows the adventures of Ellian, the tenacious princess who must go on a daring quest to save her family and kingdom after a mysterious spell transforms her parents, the King and Queen of Lumbria, into monsters.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “Spellbound is a heartfelt, fantasy-adventure movie about family and what family means.  Created with beautiful animation and fantastic songs, there is a lot to love here! I like that Spellbound shows unhealthy family dynamics, and the idea that many children view their parents as monsters. Yet for Princess Ellian (Rachel Zegler), a spell really did transform her royal parents (Nicole Kidman, Javier Bardem) into monsters.  In making this dark fantasy come true, this transformation makes for a good analogy with tweens and parents.” See her full review below.

Spellbound
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

Spellbound is a heartfelt, fantasy-adventure movie about family and what family means.  Created with beautiful animation and fantastic songs, there is a lot to love here!

Spellbound follows the adventures of Ellian (Rachel Zegler), the tenacious young daughter of the rulers of Lumbria, who must go on a daring quest to save her family and kingdom after a mysterious spell transforms her parents.  The movie is a modern take on a fairytale that uses familiar elements like a kingdom, princess, king, queen, and a spell to express the story of a family.

I like that Spellbound shows unhealthy family dynamics, and the idea that many children view their parents as monsters. Yet for Princess Ellian (Rachel Zegler), a spell really did transform her royal parents (Nicole Kidman, Javier Bardem) into monsters.  In making this dark fantasy come true, this transformation makes for a good analogy with tweens and parents. The movie is full of heart, laughter, and family — all created with vibrant, colorful animation.  Every scene is so beautiful that I could not take my eyes off the screen. The characters are all adorable.  Spellbound features an all-star voice cast led by Rachel Zegler as Ellian — the perfect princess with a beautiful voice who is independent and optimistic. I like that in a princess. Nathan Lane voices Sunny the Oracle of the Sun and Tituss Burgess is the voice of Ludo the Oracle of the Moon – they are perfect together.  Other excellent cast members are John Lithgow and Jenifer Lewis.

Spellbound addresses what it is that really makes a family — it is a modern fairytale that combines magical elements with a relatable story about family dynamics and overcoming alienation. I definitely related to this movie and think brings up good healthy conversations. It does tackle tough themes like parents’ separation seen through Ellian’s eyes and shows a child that blames themself and tries to ‘fix’ their parents’ relationship, but can’t. 

I give Spellbound 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults.  It is available on Netflix starting November 22, 2024.

Melody Brooks is navigating sixth grade as a nonverbal wheelchair user who has cerebral palsy. With the help of some assistive technology and her devoted allies, Melody shows that what she has to say is more important than how she says it.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kennedy P. comments, “I love Out of My Mind, based on the novel of the same name by Sharon Draper… I love the book and was so excited to learn that they were adapting the book into a movie.  The film explores the concept that a person’s intelligence and worth are not defined by how they communicate, and that everyone deserves to be heard and understood, regardless of their physical limitations.” Ayra B. adds, “One of my favorite parts is when Rose takes Melody to the mall — they laugh and have so much fun together that Rose forgets Melody has a disability.  My favorite character is Melody because she is confident and strong in the face of adversity.  The cinematography is great and some scenes are shot in an interesting way, such as through a mirror. I also love the upbeat and positive music.” See their full reviews below.

Out Of My Mind
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I love Out of My Mind, based on the novel of the same name by Sharon Draper that is about family and friendship.  I love the book and was so excited to learn that they were adapting the book into a movie.  The film explores the concept that a person’s intelligence and worth are not defined by how they communicate, and that everyone deserves to be heard and understood, regardless of their physical limitations.

Born with cerebral palsy, Melody (Phoebe-Rae Taylor) is nonverbal, and she is placed in a preschool level remedial academic program where her greatest source of stimulation comes from listening to Judy Blume audiobooks. When Dr. Katherine Post (Courtney Taylor) recognizes that Melody’s cognitive abilities exceed what the class offers, she advocates for Melody to join Mr. Dimming’s (Michael Chernus) class, which puts Melody on track for the life she has always dreamed of. Best of all, it puts her on a path to receive an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device so she can finally have the opportunity to make friends. But, like her journey thus far, nothing comes easy.

I really like how the film is told through Melody’s first-person narrative, with Jennifer Aniston as Melody’s voice, since Melody’s favorite TV show is Friends. Jennifer Aniston delivers a lot of heart, love, and laughter in the role, which is paired perfectly with Phoebe-Rae Taylor’s emotional performance as Melody. I was so invested in watching Melody’s dreams come true, but also feeling for her parents Chuck and Diane (Luke Kirby, Rosemarie DeWitt).  You can feel the struggle they have been fighting for their daughter’s future and wanting what is best for her.  I also love the next door neighbor, Mrs. V (Judith Light), who often helps Melody and her family.  You can feel the love Mrs. V has for Melody through the screen.  Mrs. V has some great moments and she always makes me smile. If you enjoy reading, I recommend reading the book Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper.  Also available is the sequel, Out of My Heart, where Melody goes to camp for the first time and Out of My Dreams where Melody travels on an airplane for the first time and visits London.

Out of My Mind highlights the importance of looking beyond outward appearances to see the vibrant inner world of people with disabilities, particularly those who are non-verbal like Melody, who struggles with cerebral palsy but possesses a brilliant mind.

I give Out of My Mind 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.  You can watch Out of My Mind on Disney beginning November 22, 2024.

Out of My Mind
By Arya B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Out of My Mind is a coming-of-age film about a 12-year-old non-verbal girl with cerebral palsy – she must stand up for herself in order to have the same rights as other kids her age.

The storyline follows Melody (Phoebe-rae Taylor) who is born with cerebral palsy and can’t walk or speak. Although she is extremely bright and understands complex topics similar to those her age, she has limited opportunities to learn more advanced things. All her life, she attended school in the same special education classroom since kindergarten because of her disability. Melody desperately wants the chance to be able to go to school in a regular classroom with other sixth graders. Although her mom Diane (Rosemarie Dewitt) and her dad Chuck (Luke Kirby) are both caring and dedicated parents, they disagree about her ability to learn and survive in a regular sixth grade classroom.  

Early in the film, Melody is given the chance to attend a regular sixth grade classroom with a visiting doctor Katherine Post (Courtney Taylor) at her side. Melody falls in love with the classroom experience because she can understand what is being taught and also makes a new friend Rose (Maria Nash). However, Melody cannot raise her hand to answer questions because she communicates by pointing to letters or to her surroundings. The classroom teacher, Mr. Dimming (Michael Chernus), becomes frustrated and does not want Melody there. The main plot of the film involves a Whiz Kids competition in which the four smartest kids in the class compete on a national level. However, Mr. Dimming refuses to grade Melody’s exam because he does not think she can compete.

The movie shows the various obstacles in Melody’s way: fighting to stay in the sixth-grade classroom, fighting to be on the Whiz Kids team, and fighting to make friends with other sixth graders and show them she is just as capable and interesting.  One of my favorite parts is when Rose takes Melody to the mall — they laugh and have so much fun together that Rose forgets Melody has a disability.  My favorite character is Melody because she is confident and strong in the face of adversity.  The cinematography is great and some scenes are shot in an interesting way, such as through a mirror. I also love the upbeat and positive music.  

 The film’s message is that people won’t know what you are capable of unless you show them. Melody is brave enough to advocate for herself being in a regular sixth grade classroom, which allows others to see she belongs there.  A few scenes demonstrate inappropriate behavior that may not be suitable for young children. 

I give Out of My Mind 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can watch Out of My Mind when it releases on Disney+ on November 22, 2024. 

Trailer:

St. Nick (Gerard Butler) receives a delayed letter on Christmas Eve from the Princess of Hearts. He and his dedicated team of reindeer set off to Wonderland where they’re greeted by the mean and miserable Queen of Hearts (Emilia Clarke) who hates all things Christmas… especially presents! Can St Nick, aided by Alice (Simone Ashley), the Mad Hatter and March Hare, show the Queen the true meaning of Christmas and save the day before it’s too late?

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Tiana S. comment, “The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland is a mashup of upbeat music, the twists and turns of Wonderland, and the holiday spirit! It’s perfect for families and it definitely brought up some Christmas memories for me.” See her full review below.

The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland is a mashup of upbeat music, the twists and turns of Wonderland, and the holiday spirit! It’s perfect for families and it definitely brought up some Christmas memories for me.

The film follows the story of St. Nick (Gerard Butler) on Christmas day as he gets ready to deliver presents. He receives a last-minute letter from the Princess of Hearts (Eliza Riley) who requests a special present, her own special pet. Despite being warned of the twisted Wonderland by his reindeer, St. Nick goes on a musical journey to fulfill the princess’s wish. But on arrival, he has to face the Christmas hating, Queen of Hearts (Emilie Clark) and try to teach her what Christmas is all about.

The main characters are St. Nick, Alice (Simone Ashley), Prancer (Mae Muller) and the Queen of Hearts! I love how the music is super catchy and fits the holiday theme, but it also gives you a little something to dance to. I love the fun combination of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland and Clement Clarke Moore’s poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The story is well-developed. The animation is unique, especially since it is not a style you see much today; it’s a line-drawn style that is reminiscent of older-style holiday films. I got to speak with Gerard Butler who plays St. Nick, and he told me about how special this movie is for him. It can definitely impact people who may have lost the Christmas spirit and remind them what Christmas is all about — having a great time during the holidays with their families. Just like the Queen of Hearts who has lost her faith in the holidays and developed a large hatred for them is helped by St. Nick who allows her to feel better and lose her bitterness.

This film reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas and allows viewers to become immersed in the happiness and fun of Christmas.

I give The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It is streaming on Hulu beginning November 15, 2024.

Wicked: Part I, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. The two meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz and forge an unlikely but profound friendship. Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda’s unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power, while Elphaba’s determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences on her future. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfill their destinies as Glinda the Good and Elphaba the Wicked Witch of the West.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “Oh My! Wicked is a masterpiece of enchanting visuals, a beautiful score, amazing acting, and it is a timeless tale. As someone unfamiliar with the music and storyline, this film was an absolute delight. Director Jon M. Chu masterfully embeds such great components to make this film truly something worth watching.” Madeleine H.K. adds, “I love this film!  Wicked is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film directed by Jon M. Chu, who brings his signature style and flair to this magical adaptation. At its core, the film tells a story about friendship, courage, and staying true to yourself. It challenges the idea of good versus evil, showing that people aren’t always what they seem and that everyone has their own struggles.” Audrey L. wraps it up with, “Wicked has many messages starting with don’t treat people differently just because of how they look. For example, Elphaba’s skin color is different from everyone else’s and, as a result, people treated her poorly because of that.” See their full reviews below.

Wicked

By Zoe C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

So many words to describe this film — Oh My! Wicked is a masterpiece of enchanting visuals, a beautiful score, amazing acting, and it is a timeless tale. As someone unfamiliar with the music and storyline, this film was an absolute delight. Director Jon M. Chu masterfully embeds such great components to make this film truly something worth watching.

The story tells the backstory of the “Good” and “Bad” witches, Elphaba and Glinda. The film opens by showing Elphaba’s past. She was born completely green, and considered peculiar in a repellent way as society constantly rejects her until she is welcomed at Shiz University where she meets Glinda. At Shiz, Elphaba is granted the opportunity of new beginnings, and fights back against societal norms as she speaks out for what she believes in. While the two girls are very different, they work together in Elphaba’s hopes of meeting the Wizard whom she glorifies. However, after she finally meets the great Wizard of Oz, she realizes what her heart truly desires.

This highly anticipated film adaptation of the popular musical combines a compelling story line, a great soundtrack, and an amazing cast. Cynthia Erivo is perfectly cast as Elphaba, as she vocally, emotionally, and physically embodies her character perfectly. Erivo and Ariana Grande, as Glinda, work so well together and create such a unique dynamic on the big screen. Their chemistry is what really ties this story together. However, the entire cast is packed with tons of iconic actors: Kristin Chenoweth (Wiz-o-mania Superstar), Idina Menzel (Wiz-o-mania Superstar), Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible), and many other extremely talented actors. The sound track is also spectacular; all the songs are the same as the original musical, but hearing them in this film is so satisfying. I’ve always loved “Popular” and “Defying Gravity,” so hearing Erivo and Grande’s interpretations blew me away. The cinematography by Alice Brooks is something remarkable. Watching the film I truly felt transported to the Land of Oz and I find it especially interesting how this iconic classic tale truly feels reinvented and brings a new light to the Land of Oz.

The film’s message is that people should always chase what their heart desires and not allow the rules of society to prevent them from doing so.

I give Wicked 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Wicked releases in theaters November 22, 2024.

Wicked
By Madeleine H. K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I love this film!  Wicked is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film directed by Jon M. Chu, who brings his signature style and flair to this magical adaptation. At its core, the film tells a story about friendship, courage, and staying true to yourself. It challenges the idea of good versus evil, showing that people aren’t always what they seem and that everyone has their own struggles. 

Wicked  tells a story of how a green-skinned girl named Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), who everyone thinks is bad, and Glinda (Ariana Grande), a popular girl, become unlikely best friends. It shows how being different can be powerful and how people aren’t always what they seem.

Wicked isn’t just a movie—it’s an experience. Jon M. Chu’s direction, a stellar cast, and breathtaking visuals come together to create something truly magical. The performances are outstanding. Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) has an incredible heart and strength of character. Her journey from being an outcast to embracing her power is inspiring, and her performance of “Defying Gravity” is unforgettable. Glinda (Ariana Grande) is equally captivating. Her bubbly, lighthearted charm balances the story beautifully, and Glinda’s evolving bond with Elphaba adds emotional depth. Their relationship is the heart of the film, showing how true friendship can overcome differences. The supporting cast also excels. Boq (Ethan Slater) and Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) are portrayed with depth and complexity. Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) commands attention, adding layers of intrigue to the story. Visually, Wicked is stunning. The costumes and set designs are so detailed; they make every scene magical. From the vibrant Shiz University and dazzlingly detailed Emerald City, to small touches like Elphaba’s sharp green nails and Glinda’s golden locks, the Land of Oz feels alive. The clever use of pink and green throughout the film reflects the contrasting personalities of the two leads.  The music and vocals are the soul of the movie and are spectacular. Each song is packed with emotion, from the empowering “Defying Gravity” to the bubbly “Popular.” The score makes every moment even more meaningful. Christopher Scott’s choreography is big and joyful. It definitely had me “Dancing Through Life.” The story’s arc is deeply satisfying, exploring how Elphaba and Glinda start as rivals and grow into strong, complex women who redefine what it means to be good or wicked. The emotional highs and lows definitely captivated me from start to finish. 

The film has a powerful message about how being different is a strength, not a weakness, and true friendship means accepting others for who they are.  It also emphasizes the importance of standing up for what’s right, even when it’s difficult or misunderstood.

I give Wicked 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Wicked opens in theaters November  22, 2024.

Wicked

By Audrey L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9

The film Wicked is a fun and fantastical adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical.  The music alone is worth a visit to the movie theater; I can’t get the songs out of my head!  Also remarkable are the incredibly themed costumes, the dramatic visuals throughout the film, and the acting –  they could not have selected a more fitting cast.

The film begins showing the residents of Munchkinland celebrating the death of the Wicked Witch Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), and Glinda (Ariana Grande) reminiscing about the good old days when she and Elphaba were friends.  From there we learn about how poorly Elphaba was treated by both her friends and family as a youth, including Glinda herself.  When Elphaba and Glinda realize they are destined to become best friends, that’s when the trouble really begins.  Together on a trip to Oz, they discover that the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) is not all that he is cracked up to be and each of them must make a decision that will affect the rest of their lives. 

Success on Broadway comes down to the music, and this remake does not disappoint. The classic songs throughout the movie are just as good (if not better!) than the originals. I have been singing the songs from the movie since I saw it, especially “Defying Gravity,” sung by Elphaba. The extended version in this movie is really fun because it makes a favorite song last even longer than in the play. The costumes are a good mix between the concepts from the 1900s and today's fashion. Elphaba’s witch attire is my favorite, but Glinda’s pink dress in the movie is also super fun. The ruffles upon ruffles are so beautiful! The casting is also very well done, as the actors all fit their roles so well and are a blend of classic and contemporary performances. Ariana Grande’s version of Glinda is so relatable because Ariana is a modern day heroine for many girls. The choice to cast Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba was also perfect because her voice is just fantastic. I also enjoyed Jeff Goldblum’s portrayal of the wizard, because he plays good and evil both so well. The colors and visuals throughout the movie are so bright and exciting. The colors of the Emerald City, and the costumes worn by the residents, are so vibrant and pretty to look at.

Wicked has many messages starting with don’t treat people differently just because of how they look. For example, Elphaba’s skin color is different from everyone else’s and, as a result, people treated her poorly because of that. Be aware that there are themes of bullying and exclusion, as well as how babies are welcomed to the world.

I give Wicked 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It opens in theaters November 22, 2024.

After Santa Claus (code name: Red One) is kidnapped, the North Pole’s Head of Security (Dwayne Johnson) must team up with the world’s most infamous bounty hunter (Chris Evans) in a globe-trotting, action-packed mission to save Christmas.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Calee N. comments, “I found myself going, “Ho Ho Ho” and “Ha Ha Ha,” while watching the original Christmas movie, Red One. This hilarious, innovative film has a power cast that includes Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, J.K. Simmons, Lucy Liu, Kiernan Shipka and more. It is full of action-packed adventure and comedy.” Sydney S., adds, “Red One is a very action-packed, high-energy film. From talking polar bears to “The Rock” fighting a snowman, the film mixes humor, adventure, and fantasy all together in one. However, so much is happening at once that the plot gets confusing, making it difficult to keep up.” See their full reviews and Calee’s red carpet interviews below.

Red One

By Calee N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

I found myself going, “Ho Ho Ho” and “Ha Ha Ha,” while watching the original Christmas movie, Red One. This hilarious, innovative film has a power cast that includes Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, J.K. Simmons, Lucy Liu, Kiernan Shipka and more. It is full of action-packed adventure and comedy.

The storyline follows Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans), a thief who sells information on the black market. Unknowingly, a mysterious buyer recruits Jack to give up Santa Claus’s whereabouts. The buyer kidnaps Santa, aka the Red One (J.K. Simmons), and plans to cancel Christmas by punishing everyone on the naughty list. Santa’s bodyguard, Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson), recruits Jack O’Malley to recover Santa before Christmas morning. It’s up to Callum and Jack to save Christmas.

Red One has an incredible ensemble cast, including some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Dwayne Johnson brings his signature humor, heart, and action to the magical, larger-than-life role of Callum Drift. Chris Evans’s sharp wit and undeniable chemistry with Dwayne Johnson make their unlikely partnership a movie highlight. The memorable performances of J.K. Simmons, Lucy Lou (Zoe), Kiernan Shipka (Gryla), Wesley Kimmel (Dylan), Kristofer Hivju (Krampus), Bonnie Hunt (Mrs. Claus) and Mary Elizabeth Ellis (Olivia) create a holiday adventure like no other. The director, Jake Kasdan, infuses the holiday movie genre with fresh, new, festive, funny, and heartwarming energy. He balances the high-octane action scenes with some tender moments, producing a fun and unforgettable holiday movie. The imaginative characters of Red One are brought to life through the film’s CGI and costumes, which create an engaging, whimsical story packed with excitement.

Red One embraces the holiday spirit. The film’s message is that everyone deserves a second chance and that you should always look for the good in people. Jack O’Malley becomes an unexpected hero by turning around his past. He gets a second chance to help save Santa and become a better dad. Even with all the action scenes, Red One highlights the importance of family and friends and cherishing those relationships.

I give Red One 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, adults. Red One opens in theaters on November 15, 2024.

Red One

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

Red One is a very action-packed, high-energy film. From talking polar bears to “The Rock” fighting a snowman, the film mixes humor, adventure, and fantasy all together in one. However, so much is happening at once that the plot gets confusing, making it difficult to keep up.

The plot takes us on a wild ride as Santa Claus gets captured by evil villains. A famous tracker and mythical forces team up to save Christmas. Along the way, they get slowed down by many “obstacles” (scary mythological creatures).

The main characters are Callum Drift (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans), Gryla (Kiernan Shipka), Zoe (Lucy Liu) and Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons). The two leads, Callum and Jack, have incredible chemistry and they bring distinctive and signature performances of their characters. Johnson and Evans are humorous, but their characters also share a deep life lesson. Callum needs to make a decision about who he wants to be in his life, by continuing to work for Santa or move on. Meanwhile, Jack is trying to repair his relationship with his son. The actors embody their characters well. The camerawork is shaky and messy. In the beginning of the film, I couldn’t even focus on the screen for a while because of the camerawork. However, apart from that, the graphics are captivating and add an exciting touch to some scenes. For instance, when Callum, Jack and Santa are fighting the evil witch, she’s pictured as this gigantic ogre, and she looks very believable. In terms of the plot, there is so much going on with the characters that, by the end, it feels like there’s a lot of unfinished business with all of them. As a result, the events in the story are pretty random and don’t add up. Next, the music adds depth by matching the various scenes in the film. For example, when they’re going to the evil witch’s land, the music becomes dark. Before that, it was lighthearted Christmas music. My favorite part of the film is when Callum very seriously says, “He knows when you’re sleeping…” (referring to Santa). The tone in this scene is perfect and it’s very hilarious.

The film’s message is to choose who you want to be. Callum states, “We choose who we want to be every day, in both small and big decisions.” This applies to everyone’s life. Be aware that there is mild cursing in the film.

I give Red One 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Red One releases in theaters November 15, 2024.