Archives for April 3, 2025

Snow White * A Timeless Tale With A Powerful Message About Teamwork, Friendship, And Fighting For What’s Right

Disney’s Snow White is a 2025 live-action musical reimagining of the classic 1937 film, starring Rachel Zegler in the title role and Gal Gadot as her Stepmother, the Evil Queen. The magical music adventure journeys back to the timeless story with beloved characters Bashful, Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, and Sneezy. Princess Snow White joins forces with the Seven Dwarfs to liberate her kingdom from her cruel stepmother, the Evil Queen.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Isabella V. comments, “Snow White is a beautiful retelling of a classic film. It has catchy music and amazing acting, while also presenting an incredibly creative story. An amazingly talented cast and gorgeous sets makes it feel truly magical.” Keila V., adds, “Disney’s new live-action Snow White takes the beloved 1937 classic and gives it a fresh, modern twist. This enchanting film is a timeless tale that appeals to audiences of all ages, with its powerful message about teamwork, friendship, and fighting for what’s right for both the kingdom and its people.” Jackson N. adds, “This captivating remake is a blast to watch, and it was so awesome to see Disney bring a nearly 100-year-old classic into a new era, for a new generation to experience.” Maica N. wraps it up with, “The long-awaited, live-action version of the classic fairytale, Snow White (1937), is finally here. Combining a star-studded cast with catchy music, and mythical CGI, Snow White is a breath of fresh air that I thoroughly enjoyed.” See their full reviews below.

Snow White
By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Snow White is a beautiful retelling of a classic film. It has catchy music and amazing acting, while also presenting an incredibly creative story. An amazingly talented cast and gorgeous sets makes it feel truly magical.

Based on the 1937 classic Disney animated film, the story follows Snow White (Rachel Zegler), a princess who was hidden away by her stepmother, the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot), after her father left. After having enough of her stepmother, Snow White joins forces with seven dwarfs to bring her kingdom to peace once again while they help her take down the Evil Queen.

The songs in this film, composed by Jeff Morrow, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, are expertly crafted and catchy. Every song got stuck in my head until I heard the next one, and the incredible voice talent enhances them even more. My personal favorite has to be “Whistle While you Work” – Rachel Zegler’s voice brings incredible energy and whimsy to the song, plus I love how the whistling is used in it. The sets and cinematography, directed by Mandy Walker, are also beautiful – the lighting stands out as it works perfectly and mixed with the magnificent sets creates a fantastic looking film. One shot I really love is when we first see the cottage in the forest. The costumes, designed by Sandy Powell, are also quite beautiful; however they don’t all seem to go together. Each set of costumes feels like it was meant for a different time period, which feels a bit disconnected. I really like the Evil Queen’s costumes; they’re flawless and not only fit the kingdom, but also her character.  The characters are really well scripted, and I love the actors for each of the key characters. I especially love Rachel Zegler’s performance; the amount of emotion she shows brings so much life into her character and made me feel really sympathetic for her. This film had me enchanted the whole time through its story, songs and acting.

The film’s message is to follow your morals and beliefs, even if it may not present easy decisions. Be warned that there are intense scenes and blood shown at some points.

I give Snow White 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to12. It releases in theaters March 21, 2025.

Snow White
By Keila V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Disney’s new live-action Snow White takes the beloved 1937 classic and gives it a fresh, modern twist. This enchanting film is a timeless tale that appeals to audiences of all ages, with its powerful message about teamwork, friendship, and fighting for what’s right for both the kingdom and its people.

Snow White (Rachel Zegler) is reimagined as a strong, independent young woman, reflecting today’s spirit of girl power. This version of the character goes beyond the traditional princess, showing resilience and determination. The film also introduces a new love interest, Jonathan (Andrew Burnap), a charming, Robin Hood-esque character, instead of the usual prince. Alongside the Seven Dwarfs and a group of courageous villagers, they unite to confront the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot), whose ambition for wealth, power, and beauty drives her to darker lengths.

This movie is pure magic, with moments that evoke the nostalgia of the animated classic and brought me to tears. The familiar songs, like “Heigh-Ho” and “Someday My Prince Will Come,” were spot-on, and I found myself singing along to every song. One of my favorite moments is when the Huntsman (Ansu Kabia) chooses not to harm Snow White and instead urges her to flee into the forest. The scene where Snow White, lost and frightened, discovers a breathtaking sanctuary surrounded by incredible animals is truly unforgettable.

At its heart, Snow White carries a message of kindness, compassion, and the importance of helping others. It reminds us that no matter where we come from or how much we have, the love and support of those around us is priceless—and it’s something no one can ever take away.

Snow White
By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

Brave, Fearless, True, Fair. These words that Snow White lives by are as timeless and important now as they were in 1937 when the original movie, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, was released. This captivating remake is a blast to watch, and it was so awesome to see Disney bring a nearly 100-year-old classic into a new era, for a new generation to experience.

The story centers around Snow White (Rachel Zegler), the rightful heiress to a kingdom built upon kindness, fairness, and community. Staying true to the original storyline, Snow White tragically loses her parents, and her kingdom falls under the oppressive rule of her jealous stepmother, the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot). Obsessed with her magic mirror telling her she is “the fairest of them all,” the queen’s jealousy becomes dangerous, forcing Snow White to escape into the mysterious forest. While she has some scary moments, she encounters many interesting creatures, including the seven dwarfs who take her in.

Just as Snow White wins the hearts of the dwarfs and those she meets along the way, she will win over audiences with her resilience, compassion, and charm. Snow White will be one of my family’s favorites for a long time. Disney brought together a fantastic ensemble cast for this movie including Dopey (Andrew Barth Feldman) who is inspired to find his courage by Snow White. Jonathan (Andrew Burnap) thinks everyone only cares about themselves, until Snow White shows him that people can care for each other selflessly. With a pure heart and poignant memories of a better past, Snow White inspires the people of the kingdom to reclaim their strength in the face of the Evil Queen’s tyranny. Snow White helps all of these people become better versions of themselves. This movie brings new songs and music by Frank Churchill and to director Marc Webb to bring the amazing dance numbers, beautiful sets, and special effects to life.

 The main messages of Snow White are about bravery, kindness, and selflessness. Be aware that there are some mildly scary moments, like when Snow White is first forced to enter the forest.

I give Snow White 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can see Snow White in theaters on March 21, 2025.

Snow White

Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, Age 17

Who doesn’t love a fantasy film? One that takes us to an enchanting land we can only dream of? The long-awaited, live-action version of the classic fairytale, Snow White (1937), is finally here. Combining a star-studded cast with catchy music, and mythical CGI, Snow White is a breath of fresh air that I thoroughly enjoyed.

This story follows a young princess, Snow White (Rachel Zegler), who is known for her kindhearted spirit and unparalleled beauty. When her stepmother, the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot) acts on her burning desire to be the “fairest in the land,” Snow White joins forces with seven dwarfs and a strong-willed commoner, Jonathan (Andrew Burnap). Together, they embark on a quest to free the kingdom of the queen’s overbearing rule.

Snow White is a modern day movie-musical and Rachel Zegler’ vocals demonstrate her musical theater background and her vocal training. Instead of relying on her falsetto voice for the entire film, she incorporates her vocal dexterity during the more complex sections of the music. Zegler’s vocal versatility highlights Snow White’s inner growth and confidence as she prepares to face the Evil Queen. The plot of Snow White is slow-paced until it approaches the ending, where the main conflict seems to be brushed over, which detracts from the dynamics of the story. The coloring used in the film stands out as it enhances Snow White’s character and her status in the kingdom. Snow White wears bright red, blue, and yellow, while the Evil Queen and the citizens of the kingdom are in dark and bland colors. Snow stands out as the brightness that the kingdom relies on to unite them through unfortunate times. In addition to live actors, the famous seven dwarfs and various animals that Snow White encounters are presented through the magic of CGI. The animals have realistic features but are mythical enough to keep the “fairytale” element. The seven dwarfs are a highlight of the film, each presenting different personalities. Grumpy, voiced by Martin Klebba, provides comedic relief to the film, with quick witted comments that kept me engaged, and kept the tone of the story upbeat.

The film’s message is that being kind will lead you to like-minded people who help bring out the best version of yourself. Snow White constantly puts others before herself and, even through her troubles with the Evil Queen, finds friends that are there for her. With their encouragement, she is able to face her fears and grow into the person she is destined to be.

I give Snow White 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. Snow White releases in theaters on March 21, 2025. Make sure you check it out!

Trailer:

FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA TO RECEIVE 50TH AFI LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The American Film Institute (AFI) Board of Trustees announced today that Francis Ford Coppola will be the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award, America’s highest honor for a career in film. The award will be presented to Coppola at a Gala Tribute at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on April 26, 2025.

 AFI Life Achievement Award | American Film Institute.

“Francis Ford Coppola is a peerless artist – one who has created seminal works in the canon of American film, and has also inspired generations of filmmakers who now embody his artistry and his independent spirit,” said Kathleen Kennedy, Chair of the AFI Board of Trustees. “AFI is honored to present him with the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award.”

Coppola’s THE GODFATHER, THE GODFATHER PART II and APOCALYPSE NOW are ranked among history’s greatest films in AFI’s 100 Years…100 Movies list. He is one of the most acclaimed filmmakers of our time; a six-time Academy Award®-winning (including the Board of Governors’ Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award) director, writer and producer of such films as PATTON, THE GODFATHER TRILOGY, AMERICAN GRAFFITI, THE CONVERSATION, APOCALYPSE NOW, THE OUTSIDERS, BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA and his latest epic, MEGALOPOLIS.

As the co-founder of American Zoetrope with George Lucas, Coppola initiated and nourished the careers of talents such as Carroll Ballard, John Milius, Sofia Coppola, and actors Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, James Caan, Harrison Ford, Richard Dreyfus, Diane Keaton, Robert Duvall, Matt Dillon and Diane Lane. As a writer, director, producer and technological pioneer, he created a body of work that has helped shape contemporary American cinema. Coppola’s latest film MEGALOPOLIS is a Roman epic set in modern times with an all-star cast including Adam Driver, Giancarlo Esposito, Nathalie Emmanuel, Jon Voight, Laurence Fishburne and Aubrey Plaza. This year, the film made its world premiere to a 10-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, and was released theatrically and in IMAX globally earlier this fall.

The AFI Life Achievement Award Tribute special will return for its tenth year with Turner Broadcasting to air on TNT, followed by encore presentations on Turner Classic Movies (TCM).

The American Film Institute is a nonprofit organization with a mandate to champion the moving image as an art form. All proceeds from the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award Tribute Gala support AFI’s education and arts initiatives.

AFI Life Achievement Award Recipients

The 50th AFI Life Achievement Award Honoree joins an esteemed group of individuals who have been chosen for this distinguished honor since its inception.

1973   John Ford

1974   James Cagney

1975   Orson Welles

1976   William Wyler

1977   Bette Davis

1978   Henry Fonda

1979   Alfred Hitchcock

1980   James Stewart

1981   Fred Astaire

1982   Frank Capra

1983   John Huston

1984   Lillian Gish

1985   Gene Kelly

1986   Billy Wilder

1987   Barbara Stanwyck

1988   Jack Lemmon

1989   Gregory Peck

1990   David Lean

1991   Kirk Douglas

1992   Sidney Poitier

1993   Elizabeth Taylor

1994   Jack Nicholson

1995   Steven Spielberg

1996   Clint Eastwood

1997   Martin Scorsese

1998   Robert Wise

1999   Dustin Hoffman

2000   Harrison Ford

2001   Barbra Streisand

2002   Tom Hanks

2003   Robert De Niro

2004   Meryl Streep

2005   George Lucas

2006   Sean Connery

2007   Al Pacino

2008   Warren Beatty

2009   Michael Douglas

2010   Mike Nichols

2011   Morgan Freeman

2012   Shirley MacLaine

2013   Mel Brooks

2014   Jane Fonda

2015   Steve Martin

2016   John Williams

2017   Diane Keaton

2018   George Clooney

2019   Denzel Washington

2022   Julie Andrews

2024   Nicole Kidman

Learn more about AFI at AFI.com.

About the AFI Life Achievement Award

The highest honor given for a career in film, the AFI Board of Trustees established the AFI Life Achievement Award in 1973. It is presented to a single honoree each year based on the following criteria as mandated through a resolution passed by the AFI Board of Trustees: “The recipient should be one whose talent has in a fundamental way advanced the film art; whose accomplishment has been acknowledged by scholars, critics, professional peers and the general public; and whose work has stood the test of time.”

Most recently, AFI presented the 49th AFI Life Achievement Award to Nicole Kidman on Saturday, April 27, at a Gala Tribute in Hollywood. Lee Daniels, Ava DuVernay, Zac Efron, Cynthia Erivo, Morgan Freeman, Barry Jenkins, David E. Kelley, Joey King, Mimi Leder, Mike Myers, Edward James Olmos, Michelle Pfeiffer, Jane Seymour, Meryl Streep, Brian Tee, Miles Teller, Lulu Wang, Naomi Watts and more filled the Dolby Theatre to celebrate Kidman’s award-winning career and her indelible impact on the moving arts. The event also featured tributes honoring Kidman, including speeches from Zoe Saldaña, Aaron Sorkin, Keith Urban, Reese Witherspoon, among others and taped messages from Hugh Jackman, Jane Campion, Jimmy Fallon, Cate Blanchett, George Miller, Baz Luhrmann and Russell Crowe.

About the American Film Institute (AFI)

The American Film Institute (AFI) is a nonprofit organization with a mandate to champion the moving image as an art form. Established in 1967, AFI launched the first comprehensive history of American film and sparked the movement for film preservation in the United States. In 1969, AFI opened the doors of the AFI Conservatory, a graduate-level program to train narrative filmmakers. The Conservatory, which counts Deniese Davis, Affonso Gonçalves, Susannah Grant, Matthew Libatique, David Lynch, Melina Matsoukas and Rachel Morrison as Alumni, is ranked as one of the top film schools in America. AFI’s enduring traditions include the AFI Life Achievement Award, which honors the masters for work that has stood the test of time; AFI AWARDS, which celebrates the creative ensembles of the most outstanding screen stories of the year; and scholarly efforts such as the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and the AFI Archive that preserve film history for future generations. AFI exhibition programs include AFI FEST and year-round exhibition at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Maryland. AFI Movie Club is a destination for movie lovers from around the world to celebrate and engage with the art form every day. Other pioneering programs include workshops aimed at increasing diversity in the storytelling community, including AFI DWW+ and the AFI Cinematography Intensive for Women. Read about all of these programs and more at AFI.com and follow us on social media at Facebook.com/AmericanFilmInstitute, YouTube.com/AFI, Twitter.com/AmericanFilm and Instagram.com/AmericanFilmInstitute.

About TNT

TNT, a Warner Bros. Discovery brand, is watched by more people than any other cable network and known for big, lean-forward television that takes viewers on a thrill ride of electrifying stories, dynamic characters and premium events. TNT is home to some of television’s most popular sports franchises and unscripted and scripted originals including “AEW: Rampage,” “Rich & Shameless,” and “The Lazarus Project”. TNT also presents primetime specials and sports coverage, including the NHL, NBA and NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championships. Website: www.tntdrama.com

About Turner Classic Movies (TCM)

Turner Classic Movies (TCM) is a two-time Peabody Award-winning network that presents classic films, uncut and commercial-free, from the largest film libraries in the world highlighting “where then meets now.” TCM features the insights from Primetime host Ben Mankiewicz along with hosts Alicia Malone, Dave Karger, Jacqueline Stewart and Eddie Muller, plus interviews with a wide range of special guests and serves as the ultimate movie lover destination. With more than two decades as a leading authority in classic film, TCM offers annual programming events like 31 Days of Oscar® and Summer Under the Stars. TCM also directly connects with movie fans through popular events such as the annual TCM Classic Film Festival in Hollywood and the TCM Classic Cruise. In addition, TCM produces the wildly successful podcast “The Plot Thickens,” which has had more than 9 million downloads to date. TCM hosts a wealth of material online at tcm.com and through the Watch TCM mobile app. Fans can also enjoy a classic movie experience on the TCM hub on Max.

Quincy, April 4th Pet of the Week

AWWWWW!

What a good girl is Quincy! Our big baby is a year old, with all the energy you’d expect from a dog right out of puppyhood. That look on her face seems to say, “Are you going to throw that Frisbee, or what?” Quincy was brought in as a stray and soon adapted to the leash and the play yard. She walks beautifully and gets the zoomies in the yard. Sadly, she’s showing signs of kennel stress—no matter how much attention shelter staff and volunteers provide, a kennel is no place for a dog. That’s especially true for a young, active dog like Quincy, who’s begun to spin in her kennel. She’d be so grateful for a forever home, or even a foster! Speed the process to adopt !Quincy 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#A736205