Archives for April 2026

Mario and Luigi, the twin plumbers, apply their “let’s-a-go” attitude to solve everyday problems all over their new home of the Mushroom Kingdom. As they support Princess Peach, and work to reform a miniaturized imprisoned Bowser, they meet a new companion – Yoshi. Princess Peach’s birthday party sparks a galactic adventure, sending the brothers into space to stop Bowser Jr.’s wicked ambitions and save Rosalina. The addition of the beloved characters Rosalina and Bowser Jr. adds extra spice of big action, comedy, and some shocking revelations to the adventure!

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is one of the few cases where I feel the sequel stacks up to the original. The animation is better than ever, using saturated, vibrant colors to bring gaming vibes to the big screen in a way that makes it fun for all ages.” Valerie M. adds, “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is made for kids, but it is also entertaining for adults. I love the story the most. Its fast-paced, engaging plot twists kept me wondering what could possibly happen next.” Braedyn M. wraps it up with, “There’s nothing quite like the Super Mario Galaxy Movie.  From wildly popular video game characters making surprise appearances to clever throwbacks interspersed, this film delivers on all its promises, and still left me wanting more.” See their full reviews below.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

By Jackson N. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Welcome back to the Mushroom Kingdom! The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is one of the few cases where I feel the sequel stacks up to the original. The animation is better than ever, using saturated, vibrant colors to bring gaming vibes to the big screen in a way that makes it fun for all ages.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie continues the stories of Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day), two brothers who now, after the events of the first movie, live in the Mushroom Kingdom. They are traveling across the world to help people with warp pipe issues and, along the way, they meet a cute new travel companion, Yoshi (Donald Glover). They soon return to the Mushroom Kingdom and find a Luma, a star, that tells them that Princess Rosalina (Brie Larson) is in danger. Going to save the princess, Mario, Luigi, Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), Toad (Keegan-Michael Key), and Yoshi, set off to explore the galaxy.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has some of the funniest references in the saga. In the Gateway Galaxy, for example, in the opening scene,  you see basically every side character in Mario history, the Piantas from the Super Mario Sunshine game, and so many more. Then, when they get to the space port, Nintendo does the unthinkable: they include characters from their other games. Overall, as someone who played a lot of the old games, every little detail is really fun to see incorporated into the movie. Another funny Easter egg is towards the end of the film – Mario uses the Red Star, which gives him the ability to fly around, this is a particularly good detail because this was a special power-up in both Mario Galaxy games and is a great nod for fans. Each galaxy is beautifully designed by Illumination, the studio behind both Despicable Me and The Secret Life of Pets. The movie includes tons of nods to the games, like the Honeyhive Galaxy, featured in the original Mario Galaxy game, where they meet the Queen Bee (Issa Rae) and Bowser (Jack Black) makes the ultimate sacrifice. 

The film’s main message is that with friends you can do anything. It includes themes of teamwork, play fighting, and family bonds. While the movie is suited for children, parents should be aware that the film includes some violence, like when Bowser falls into the lava, but the film makes it fun and suitable for everyone.

I give The Super Mario Galaxy Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It releases in theatres on April 1, 2026.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

I love The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. The film’s writing, animation and comedy is really out of this world! (Pun intended.)

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie follows the brothers Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day), as well as Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy). Two incidents occur in the Mushroom Kingdom: Rosalina’s (Brie Larson) star child asks Princess Peach to help save her from an unknown danger, and Bowser Junior (Benny Safdie) takes Princess Peach’s castle trying to free his father Bowser (Jack Black). These events take the characters into space, searching for Rosalina and trying to save her from whatever danger she may be in.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is made for kids, but it is also entertaining for adults. I love the story the most. Its fast-paced, engaging plot twists kept me wondering what could possibly happen next. While trying to save Rosalina, Peach keeps wondering where she came from. Along the way, we get clues and hints about her origins. It’s like a scavenger hunt inside a movie. If you want to find out more, you’ll just have to watch the film! The film also uses the many possibilities of being in space to its advantage by taking the brothers and princess on side missions that make the story more chaotic, thrilling and, don’t forget, fun. A good story is nice, but creativity in animation is what makes a good film even greater, andThe Super Mario Galaxy Movie does not disappoint! For the most part, the animation style doesn’t change from its clean 3D look. What catches my eye is that there are times where we go into whole other mediums: puppet shows, storybooks that look like something you could find in an actual library, comic books, and even a callback to the original pixelated Super Mario games! All this mixing and matching really gives the film a special charm of playing a game for the first time. The jokes don’t always land and the film’s pacing doesn’t leave enough time for the characters to really interact with the worlds, but those things didn’t ruin the film for me. It’s a great watch!

The film’s message is that kindness in helping other people will always prevail over the power of destroying them. Be aware that there are mentions of murder, destruction and gambling.

I give The Super Mario Galaxy Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It releases in theaters on April 1, 2026.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

There’s nothing quite like the Super Mario Galaxy Movie.  From wildly popular video game characters making surprise appearances to clever throwbacks interspersed, this film delivers on all its promises, and still left me wanting more.

In this sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, our heroes Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day) are joined by Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) and Toad (Keagan-Michel Key) enjoying and settling into their life in the Mushroom Kingdom.  Sadly, their good times don’t last. The appearance of Bowser Jr. (Benny Safdie) who’s intent on reclaiming his father Bowser (Jack Black) and ruling the universe with him side by side, throws the galaxy into chaos. They plan to achieve this evil feat by capturing Rosalina (Brie Larson), the protector of the cosmos herself. Now, the brothers are thrust into the action, this time with a brand-new friend Yoshi (Donald Glover) tagging along for the adventure.

As any Nintendo fan knows, the Super Mario franchise is chock-full of characters that seem larger than life.  In this film, a large number of stars show up! Yoshi is my absolute favorite character, and Donald Glover excels in bringing Yoshi’s emotions and dialogue to the fore.  Wart (Luis Guzmán), from the Super Mario Bros. 2 video game, makes an appearance, along with Fox McCloud (Glen Powell), from the Star Fox saga. Besides these, there are plenty of past video game references, hidden Easter eggs, and more which any long-time Nintendo fan will appreciate. The detail put into the film’s animation is extremely high which allows for deeper connection with the film, without being distracted by subpar graphics. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie differs from its predecessor in how the directors expanded on the world they first created. In the first film, The Super Mario Bros Movie, the plot focuses on the journey that first brought Mario and Luigi to the Mushroom Kingdom. Now that the brothers have gotten to know their new home, the stage is set for a huge expansion. With new faces and new places, plus a numerous score of new Power-Ups, this spectacular adventure is one that truly honors and celebrates the expansive, vast universe of Super Mario.

This film’s message is to not give up, no matter how daunting the situation might be. These Brooklyn born plumbers had their hands full when battling Bowser the first time, so a second bout, this time with Bowser’s own son by his side, seems impossible to prevail against. Yet, through every foe they encounter, every planet they land on, and every rescue they make, this team finds a way to beat the odds and save the galaxy.

I give The Super Mario Galaxy Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This film launches in theaters on April 1,  2026, so go take a look!

Trailer:

Science teacher Ryland Grace wakes up alone on a spaceship light-years from Earth. As his memory returns, he uncovers a mission to stop a mysterious substance killing the sun, and save Earth. An unexpected friendship may be the key.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, Project Hail Mary is a thrilling trip through the universe that I will not soon forget.  A strong and compelling plot, coupled with creative expressions of scientific theories and technology are just a few highlights of this powerful book to screen adaptation.” Rayce S. adds, “Project Hail Mary is a visual spectacle with great characters, a heartwarming theme and a roller coaster of emotions. It’s full of suspense, humor and fascinating science.” Valerie M. wraps it up with, “Project Hail Mary is an unforgettable experience. The acting in this film is amazing. It’s impressive how one man can not only keep an audience engaged, but also lead us through a story that makes us laugh, cry and always keeps us on the edge of our seats.” See their full reviews and Rayce’s interview with the directors and producers below.

Project Hail Mary
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Project Hail Mary is a thrilling trip through the universe that I will not soon forget.  A strong and compelling plot, coupled with creative expressions of scientific theories and technology are just a few highlights of this powerful book to screen adaptation. 

Waking up alone on a spaceship is a tough way to picture yourself, but for middle school science teacher Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling), it’s reality.  With only a vague recollection of his life on Earth, no company, and no apparent way home, he figures he’s done for.  But as his memories start to return, he remembers his mission: to save Earth from a parasitic species of alien microorganisms that are eating the sun.  Though this sounds impossible, he won’t be alone for the task.  Enter Rocky (James Ortiz), an alien whose solar system has the same deadly infection as Grace’s.  Working together, these two have a chance to rescue their home worlds, and maybe even the entire universe.

The best way to describe this film is strong.  Ryan Gosling is perfectly suited for the role of Ryland Grace, ensuring the importance and gravity of Grace and Rocky’s mission is front and center. The directors took a creative and unique approach in creating an alien comrade for Grace, and it pays off. Instead of designing a being that’s slightly similar to a human, Rocky is, well… basically a living rock. This adds distinction between our two heroes, and further heightens the principle of learning to work together on a project that can make or break the future, despite their great differences.  A unique aspect of Project Hail Mary is that not one green screen was used during production.  Instead, it features thousands of VFX shots for special effects, and the entire interior of the Hail Mary ship is built as a practical set!  Methods like wire and puppeteer removals are employed, and shots are filmed in front of black backgrounds for space and shifting hues for planets to achieve unique interactive light.  The storyline itself is special in the sense that it incorporates Ryland’s space journey, while mixing in the events that transpired on Earth that got Grace to where he finds himself now.

This film’s message shows us that through friendship, even the hardest problems can be solved. Grace has the impossible task of saving humanity and the universe from a threat that no one has a clue how to defeat. When he and Rocky put their heads together, the solution to their quest is nothing short of extraordinary.

I give Project Hail Mary 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Project Hail Mary rockets into theaters on March 20, 2026. Go check it out!

Project Hail Mary
By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Project Hail Mary is a visual spectacle with great characters, a heartwarming theme and a roller coaster of emotions.

Science teacher Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) wakes up alone on a spaceship light-years away from earth only to learn that he must save the Earth from a mysterious threat that is killing the sun. He makes an unlikely friendship that might be the key.

Interview: https://youtu.be/o_v5oQOdQQI

This film is based on the book by the same name by Andy Weir. I cannot speak to whether this film is accurate to the book or not but the film definitely works on its own. Project Hail Mary truly had me engaged for its full run time. It’s full of suspense, humor and fascinating science. If you’re concerned about seeing this film because it’s too long, I guarantee you it’s not long enough. Ryland Grace is a character who I could relate to, mainly because of his journey in this film. Initially, he is in denial of his purpose but eventually he comes to terms with what he has to do, which is extremely important. Rocky (James Ortiz) is the surprise highlight of this film. I was blown away at how much I could feel and care for a rock and Rocky really takes the film to another level. The mix of puppets and CGI flows seamlessly for his character. However, it’s not just the actors’ performances that make this film great – it’s also having the film take place in space and the fact that we only see two characters for the majority of the film. Those things made me feel as if I was right there with them. When you add the beautiful cinematography that this film has, it exceeds overwhelmingly. I love that this film can be seen by anyone; it’s such a well-written, feel-good movie, which is hard to find nowadays. This film hits it out of the park!

The film’s message is about companionship and how people and living creatures need someone there with us so we are not alone. The way this theme is conveyed in the film is very heartwarming and touching.

I give Project Hail Mary 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in cinemas on March 20, 2026. Be sure to look for it.

Project Hail Mary
By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

Project Hail Mary is so captivating! From its engrossing plot to the beautiful visuals and its lovable cast, I don’t have nearly enough words to describe how much I love this film.

The storyline follows Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling), a scientist and a school teacher who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of himself and his mission. He figures out that he is the only survivor of a crew sent to the Tui Ceti system to find out how to save Earth from dying. All he can rely on is his knowledge, faith and will. However, he learns he is not alone on this quest.

Project Hail Mary is an unforgettable experience. The acting in this film is amazing. It’s impressive how one man can not only keep an audience engaged, but also lead us through a story that makes us laugh, cry and always keeps us on the edge of our seats. Speaking of stories, I love not only the plot but I also appreciate how it’s formatted and paced. We start and stay in the present with Grace for the majority of the film. I like how we learn about Grace’s past through his flashbacks. Throughout the film, we get little snippets of the events leading up to the launch of the ship and it was a genius. It definitely heightened my curiosity and made the film ten times more interesting. Another thing that captivated me is the visual design – the planets, spaceships, alien life, and overall look of outer space is beautiful. Everything was designed with so much care, and consideration. While on the topic of visuals, this movie was filmed for IMAX and watching it in IMAX heightens the experience. The music also enhances the emotions of the film, thanks to composer Daniel Pemberton. I particularly enjoyed the music in the scenes on the ship and in outer space. This film has so much care put into it that I can’t find a single thing wrong with it. I just have to say that I love this film.

The film’s message is that teamwork and friendship can do anything. Be aware that the film contains scenes with blood, death, corpses, drinking, and existential dread.

I give Project Hail Mary 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Project Hail Mary releases in theaters on March 20, 2026.

Trailer:

In London, two dads (Josh Duhamel & Michael Socha) set their sights on the last open spot at an ultra-posh preschool. What begins as a simple application snowballs into a wildly escalating rivalry packed with big-hearted laughs, outrageous one‐upmanship, and surprising consequences. As schemes spiral and families get pulled into the madness, both fathers discover what they’re really willing to do for their kids–and what it means to be a parent.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “Preschool captures exactly how stressful the preschool application process can feel for parents. The plot is constantly amusing, with twists and turns at every moment, and as you start to understand more of the story, it just gets funnier. Josh Duhamel both directs and stars in the film, and somehow manages to pull off both roles without missing a beat.” See his full review below.

Preschool

By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Preschool captures exactly how stressful the preschool application process can feel for parents. The plot is constantly amusing, with twists and turns at every moment, and as you start to understand more of the story, it just gets funnier. Josh Duhamel both directs and stars in the film, and somehow manages to pull off both roles without missing a beat.

The story centers on two families competing to get their kids into the top preschool in the area, with only one spot remaining. Alan Williams (Josh Duhamel) and his wife Lauren (Charity Wakefield) are convinced their daughter deserves that spot, but so are Brian Young (Michael Socha) and his wife Sarah (Antonia Thomas). Both families want this preschool badly, which leads to some hilarious hijinks including a broken finger, a wrestling fail, and so much more.

The main message of Preschool is that both dads are so focused on winning the preschool spot that they completely lose sight of their actual kids. In one scene, Alan leaves his daughter inside an indoor skydiving machine — she is clearly calling for his help, but he is too distracted talking to Brian to notice. The physical comedy lands well throughout, especially in the final fight scene where a window gets broken and someone gets clotheslined. Michael Socha brings wild energy as Brian, and James Cosmo as Brian’s father adds grit and a grounded dose of reality that keeps things from feeling too over the top.

The music perfectly fits the film’s childlike and humorous tone — it feels playful and a little chaotic, just like the dads themselves. The locations are also a highlight, with each family’s home and neighborhood painting a clear picture of whom they are and who they want to be seen as. Alan’s world looks polished and put-together, while Brian’s has a rougher, more working-class feel, and that contrast adds a lot to the comedy.

The film’s message is about not losing sight of your parenting goals by over-focusing on things like securing the coveted preschool slot. It is such a natural part of parenting to worry about your child’s future, but worrying about it as early as preschool creates unnecessary anxiety – the film definitely mines that anxiety for lots of laughs. Be aware that the film includes themes of anger and there are a few scenes where the dads come to blows, but the film consistently finds a way to keep even those moments funny.

I give Preschool 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The film is available on VOD starting March 17, 2025.