Chickenne, Meko and Luna, July 17 Pets of the Week

Lulu and Meko

Meet a ready-made family, perfect for an empty-nester! Lulu, a 10-year-old gray-and-white girl; Meko, an 8-year-old orange-and-white attention-grabbing fella; and Chickenne (we have no idea where the name came from), a sweet Siamese/tabby coated 12-year old man were surrendered by their owner because they reportedly had too many cats in the house. The cats are all seniors and did not deserve this. They’re also affectionate, especially Meko, who takes any opportunity to photo-bomb. “If I could be granted one wish, it would be for someone to come in and adopt them all together,” one of the volunteers in the photo said. Three cats is not too many! To adopt or foster the feline family, email PetAdopt@longbeach.gov to speed the process, or call (562) 570-7387. Better yet, meet her in person at Long Beach Animal Care Services, 7700 E. Spring St., Long Beach, at entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors). Visiting hours are Wednesday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Ask for A759862 (Chickenne), A759861 (Meko) and A759863 (Lulu).

Chickenne and Meko

Summer Must-Haves!

This really is a must buy!

Scars and sun protection go together like flip flops and pedicures! NewGel+UV is the first breakthrough scar treatment to combine the power of 100% Medical Grade Silicone gel and non-chemical sunscreen protecting your scars from UV exposure while minimizing the risk of hyperpigmentation. This advanced formula creates a protective barrier, reducing scarring while providing gentle relief and soothing benefits. Designed for exposed areas like faces, arms, and hands, NewGel+UV is the ultimate solution for scar management and sun protection. Made in USA and chemical free. This really makes a great addition to your first aid kit! I highly recommend it!

Perfect for travel this summer!

GuruNanda’s Butter on Gums Ready-To-Go Toothbrushes are compact, single-use brushes that come pre-loaded with toothpaste – perfect for your purse, backpack or car! Designed for convenience, this disposable mini 70 count travel toothbrush kit features extra-soft Softex Bristles, pre-pasted fluoride-free toothpaste, & a built-in toothpick, ensuring a complete oral care routine anytime, anywhere. Individually wrapped & TSA-approved, it’s the ideal oral care companion for vacations and on-the-go lifestyles. Simply brush, clean, and go for a fresh smile (no water necessary!). It’s eco-friendly, cruelty-free and made with 100% recyclable plastic & free from BPA, PFA, latex, & gluten. 

Skinesa Kids is a daily, great-tasting chewable probiotic designed for children struggling with problematic skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea – no mixing, no mess, and no large pills to swallow. Backed by university research showing that skin health starts in the gut, Skinesa Kids features a proprietary blend of five patented probiotic strains specifically selected to support healthy skin, not just digestion. These ingredients were evaluated in gold-standard randomized controlled clinical trials involving children ages 4-17, with 92% experiencing visibly healthier skin in 90 days or less. Skinesa Kids is kid-tested, clinically proven, free from known allergens, and has shown no known side effects across two successful clinical trials.

BruiseMD takes a dual-action approach to bumps and bruises that inevitably come with active kids. The system combines a topical gel to reduce discoloration and soothe skin with an oral supplement that supports the body’s natural healing process from the inside out. Powered by clinically studied natural ingredients like arnica, vitamin C, bromelain and hesperidin, it’s a go-to for parents dealing with playground mishaps and sport injuries. Another great addition to your First Aid Kit this summer!

These will be a hit with young kids!

Lil’ Chillys Gel Ice Packs from KEEP>GOING First Aid

Add a little extra comfort and fun to your child’s backpack with Lil Chillys from KEEP>GOING First Aid. These adorable rainbow-shaped gel ice packs are not only a cute addition to their day at the beach but also a practical one. Designed for small hands, Lil Chillys provide soothing relief for minor bumps, bruises, and scrapes, all while making ice time a delightful experience. With their vibrant colors and gentle cooling, they’re perfect for those springtime adventures and outdoor playdates. Lil Chillys can be found on the website Lil’ Chillys – Gel Ice Packs – KEEP>GOING First Aid and on Amazon.com.

I love these!

Handzies Soap + Water Wipes

Get a ‘soap and water clean’ anytime, anywhere! Individually packaged and perfect for tucking in beach bags or clean-up after a day at the park, Handzies Soap + Water Wipes give your child fresh, clean hands using only natural castile soap, water and essential oils. Say goodbye to harsh hand sanitizers, Handzies do not contain alcohol, BZK, triclosan, artificial perfumes or dyes. Gentle for use by the entire family! The fresh Tangerine scent is perfect for the Summer! http://handzies.com/.

Love these sheets!

Soothe Fitted Crib Sheets | MSRP: $23.96 | Available on Amazon

Ensure restful sleep with KeaBabies Soothe Fitted Crib Sheets, made from soft, breathable jersey cotton for year-round comfort. Designed to fit standard crib mattresses (52″ x 28″, 3″-8″ depth). These are super soft!

Perfect for the summer!

Kids going to sports camps this summer? These are a must! CourtCraft Classic: durable synthetic leather with toe protection, cushioned support, and a non-slip outsole—great for both everyday wear and indoor play. These are super cool and very comfy!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this season themed post. Images were also provided.

Americana Car Show at the Printing Museum – Sat, July 11th

Credit: International Printing Museum

The International Printing Museum in Carson, CA, invites you to an Americana Car Show: A Celebration of Revolutionary Machines on Saturday, July 11, 10 am to 4 pm. 

From the hand-powered presses that spread revolutionary ideas to the automobiles that transformed modern life, Revolutionary Machineshighlights the technologies that helped shape the American experience. 

At this family-friendly event celebrating the American spirit of invention and ingenuity, guests can: 

  • See antique cars from 1912 to the 1970s
  • Print a copy of the Declaration of Independence
  • Write with a quill and ink, like the founding fathers did
  • Create American-themed keepsakes featuring everything from bald eagles to cool cars
  • Screen print an event t-shirt
  • Meet “Thomas Jefferson” — live and in person — at 11am (limited seating) 

It’s a joyful day for all ages filled with chrome and ink.

Tickets & Info:printmuseum.org/americana

Prices: $15 for general Admission; $12 students & seniors; $45 family four-pack

Location: The International Printing Museum, 315 W Torrance Blvd, Carson, CA

SOUNDS OF LA COUNTY: 27 PARKS. 108. CONCERTS. ONE COUNTY.

A new standalone summer concert series for LA County Parks, produced by NextFest LA.

The County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation (LA County Parks) is launching its  first official standalone FREE summer concert series in LA County Parks’ history. Sounds of LA County – 27 Parks. 108 Concerts. One County highlights local artists from LA County’s abundant indie music scene, bringing a music festival vibe to your front door. The free concerts, taking place Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, are uniquely curated to reflect the culture, diversity, and energy of the communities where they are held.

Sounds of LA County marks a new chapter for free outdoor concerts in the region. Using its platform and resources to create meaningful opportunities for the local indie music community, LA County Parks is reimagining what a public summer concert series can be. To bring that vision to life, the Department entrusted NextFest LA—the independent music festival known for championing local indie talent—with producing a series built around that same mission.

“LA County Parks has always been a place where communities come together. With Sounds of LA County, we’re expanding that tradition by creating new opportunities for local artists while giving residents free access to live music that reflects the unique culture of their own neighborhoods,” said Norma E. García-González, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation. “This series celebrates the incredible talent found across Los Angeles County and reinforces our commitment to making arts and culture accessible to everyone.”

When a County invests in its own artists, it strengthens the local creative economy, gives working musicians a meaningful platform, and reinforces that the arts are essential to community life. Every Sounds of LA County concert is an opportunity for residents to be part of that investment. By showing up, audiences are supporting local musicians and helping strengthen the cultural fabric of their own communities.

The programming spans Latin, R&B, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Reggae, Country, Americana, Indie, Indigenous, Dance, and Family genres, but is always tied to the specific cultural identity of each park community. With concerts taking place in parks throughout North, East, and South Los Angeles County—including La Puente, Sylmar, Antelope Valley, Carson, Azusa, West Covina, Palmdale, Lancaster, and more—audiences can expect a music festival experience that reflects the unique identity of each community.

Even the name was developed with intentionality. Los Angeles County isn’t one sound, one culture, or one neighborhood. It is cumbia drifting from a backyard in East LA, neo-soul echoing through Rimgrove Park, norteño filling a park in La Puente on a Summer evening. Sounds of LA County reflects that diversity by celebrating the communities, cultures, and artists that define Los Angeles County. 

This summer, Sounds of LA County brings 108 free concerts to 27 parks across the county, July 9 – August 29, inviting residents to experience original live music while supporting the artists shaping Los Angeles County’s creative future.

About the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation 

The County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation manages 184 parks, 9 natural areas, 15 wildlife sanctuaries, 42 public swimming pools, 25 splash pads, 14 lakes including 3 with swimming beaches, 250 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding; and the largest municipal golf system in the nation with 20 golf courses at 18 facilities. The department maintains four botanical gardens: The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, the South Coast Botanic Garden, Descanso Gardens, and Virginia Robinson Gardens. The department also owns the iconic Hollywood Bowl, and The Ford, providing County residents with valuable entertainment and cultural resources.  Visit: https://parks.lacounty.gov/ 

Visit: Sounds of LA County

California Wine Festival Returns to Santa Barbara July 17–18, 2026

Festival attendees savoring the vibrant atmosphere. Image courtesy of California Wine Festival.

California Wine Festival returns to its coastal hometown of Santa Barbara for two unforgettable days of wine, gourmet bites and oceanfront celebration on Friday, July 17, and Saturday, July 18, 2026. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, the beloved summer tradition brings together wine lovers, culinary enthusiasts and weekend travelers for elevated tastings, live music and quintessential California coastal experiences. Guests can enjoy wines from acclaimed producers including Alma Rosa, Aperture Cellars, Brick Barn Wine Estate, Caymus Vineyards, Cakebread Cellars, Trefethen Family Vineyards, Williams Selyem and dozens more from California’s premier wine regions.

“Santa Barbara will always hold a special place in our hearts because it’s where the California Wine Festival began,” said Emily Kaufmann. “There’s nothing quite like enjoying California wines just steps from the ocean surrounded by incredible food, music and community.”

Festival Events

Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting

Friday, July 17 | 6:30 – 9 p.m.

Plaza Del Sol, Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

633 E. Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA

The weekend begins with the elegant Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting hosted at Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort’s breathtaking Plaza Del Sol. Guests will be welcomed with a sparkling wine reception under the stars before sampling rare and reserve-level wines from premier California wine regions including Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Paso Robles and Santa Barbara County.

Guests enjoy gourmet appetizers from top local chefs, artisan cheeses, fresh fruits, olive oils and more while live music creates a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere throughout the evening.

Beachside Wine Festival 

Saturday, July 18 | 1 – 4:15 p.m. (VIP Entry at 12 p.m.)

Chase Palm Park 

236 E. Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA

The signature Beachside Wine Festival transforms Santa Barbara’s scenic waterfront into a vibrant tasting experience featuring hundreds of California wines, regional craft brews and gourmet food offerings from celebrated chefs and food artisans.

Festivalgoers can sample gourmet appetizers, chocolates, breads, olive oils, seafood specialties and more while enjoying live music overlooking the ocean. Guests can also experience the fan-favorite “Best Tri-Tip in the 805” BBQ Competition, where attendees vote for their favorite local BBQ team throughout the afternoon.

VIP ticket holders receive early entry and access to the exclusive VIP Pavilion featuring elevated food and wine pairings, premium seating and curated tasting experiences.

Festival Highlights & Features

  • Festival Sponsors Include:
    • Andy Gump, BMW, Brick Barn Wine Estate, High Flyer Wines & Priest Ranch, Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, Lifetime Remodeling, Lloyd Cellars, Pacific Surfliner, Renewal by Andersen, System Pavers, The Point Market, Traeger and WDT Wealth Partners, UBS Financial Services Inc.
  • Food & Beverage Partners Include:
    • aficio22, Aquamar, The Knock, Buena Onda Empanadas, Butterfly Brittles, CHZ GUY/Coastal Specialty Foods, Costa Kitchen & Bar, Crepería El Chisme, Doms Taverna, Finch & Fork, Gino Angelini Foods, Goufrais Southern California – Cocoa Confection, Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, Marisella, Montecito Gourmet Wine & Coffee, p.o.p. candy co., Rhino’s Glazed Almonds, Santa Barbara WoodFire Catering, SB Craft Jerky, SiSi Cakes and The Blue Owl.
  • Participating Wineries Include:
    • Adobe Road Winery, Akash Winery & Vineyards, Alma Rosa Winery, Aperture Cellars, Bernadus Winery, Bezel from the Cakebread Family, Brick Barn Wine Estate, Burtech Family Vineyard, Cakebread Cellars, Caymus Vineyards, Cuvaison, Double Bond Wines, EHRET Winery, Foley Family Wines & Spirits, High Flyer Wines, Kiler Canyon Vineyard, La Lieff Wines, Lloyd Cellars, Macchia, Malibu Wine Company, Michael Pozzan Winery, Mizel Estate Wines, Prescription Vineyards, Priest Ranch, Rombauer Vineyards, Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance, Shale Oak Winery, Terra Amata Vineyards, The Vinho, Trefethen Family Vineyards, Turning Tide Wines, Vincent Vineyards, Williams Selyem and Ysidro Sake Spritz.
  • VIP Pavilion Featured Purveyors: 
    • The Blue Owl, Buena Onda Empanadas, Doms Taverna, Finch & Fork and Vibe Caviar.
  • Best Tri-Tip in the 805 BBQ Competition:
    • Sponsored by Traeger, the fan-favorite BBQ competition invites guests to sample tri-tip from some of the Central Coast’s top pitmasters and vote for their favorite throughout the afternoon. Participating competitors include Convivo, Costa Kitchen & Bar, Craft Wood Fired Catering, Mac’s Tip Smokehouse, Meraz Catering, Oak and Fire and Santa Barbara WoodFire Catering.
  • Special Features:
    • The 2026 California Wine Festival Santa Barbara benefits the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County, helping support its mission of providing nutritious food and resources to individuals and families throughout the region.

California Wine Festival is a 21+ event. Tickets include all wine and food samples plus an 18 oz keepsake wine glass. For tickets and additional information, please visit CaliforniaWineFestival.com

About California Wine Festival

California Wine Festival celebrates the fine wines and culinary offerings of California. Founded in 2004 in Santa Barbara, the nationally recognized event series has grown into one of the largest outdoor wine festivals in the state, showcasing California’s wineries, chefs, coastal destinations and lifestyle experiences. Committed to sustainability, 90% of festival waste was diverted from landfills in 2025. California Wine Festival has also helped raise awareness and funds for charitable organizations throughout the state including the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County, Surfrider Foundation, Golden Rule Charity and more.

For more information, visit CaliforniaWineFestival.com and follow us on social media: 

Minions & Monsters * This film is a laugh-a-minute; making it feel like the movie is over in a flash

Minions & Monsters follows the Minions in 1920s Hollywood as they search for frightening creatures for their monster movie, partner with a green creature, and must save the planet after unleashing monsters.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ryker N. comments, “I am BANAAANAS about Minions & Monsters! This film is a laugh-a-minute; making it feel like the movie is over in a flash. Even though this is the seventh Minions movie, it still feels fresh and funny.” Julie O. adds, “I enjoy Minions & Monsters because it has an entertaining comedic style and a fun story line. I love the use of humor and references to old Hollywood movies and actors.” Leo G. wraps it up with, “I liked watching this movie with its funny moments that had me laughing the whole time. For example, the Minions lose their initial Big Boss when he steps on a Minion-made LEGO brick, triggering a destructive chain reaction that results in his entire house breaking down and the Big Boss falling off a cliff.” See their full reviews below.

Minions & Monsters
By Ryker N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I am BANAAANAS about Minions & Monsters! This film is a laugh-a-minute; making it feel like the movie is over in a flash. Even though this is the seventh Minions movie, it still feels fresh and funny.

Minions & Monsters is the backstory of the Minions (Pierre Coffin) before Despicable Me (2010). It follows the Minions through all of their previous leaders and then into Hollywood in the 1920s as they make a monster movie. Of course, things don’t go as planned and they end up having to save the planet after creating monsters from an old spellbook. The plot fluctuates between two storylines involving the Minion protagonists, James, Henry and Ed, as they create the monsters for their movie vs. the rest of the Minion gang who eventually hook up with their new leader Dort (Jesse Eisenberg), an alien robot, and Debbie (Zoey Deutch), a women’s activist, to create a small love story with a twist that brings it all together in the end.

The comedy in Minions & Monsters is exactly what you’d expect from a Minion’s movie. The Minions’ random made-up language mixed with real words from different languages is still one of the funniest parts.  Something that really stands out is how much the animation keeps getting better with each Minions movie. The characters look smoother; the colors brighter; and the action scenes are immersive. I especially like the scenes with the biggest monster, Irene, because the special effects make her incredibly life-like and unforgettable. I also like how the Minions’ outfits match the time period. From the 1920s’ sweaters to the classic overalls, it’s a small detail but it makes the movie feel even more creative. My most favorite part is how the directors (Pierre Coffin, Patrick Delage) and writers (Pierre Coffin, Bryan Lynch) incorporate small surprise details at the beginning of the movie and throughout the credits. Be sure to stay until the very end to avoid missing out on these comical surprises!

This film’s message is about loyalty. The Minions may be goofy and accident-prone but they never give up on each other. No matter how impossible things seem, they stick together, proving that real friendship means standing by the people you care about – even when everything goes completely bananas. 

Minions & Monsters gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The film releases to theaters on July 1, 2026.

Minions & Monsters

By Julie O. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I enjoy Minions & Monsters because it has an entertaining comedic style and a fun story line. I love the use of humor and references to old Hollywood movies and actors.

Minions & Monsters is the third Minion’s spin off, and the storyline holds its own and can be enjoyed without seeing the other films. In this animated, fictional, autobiography of the Minions, one Minion, James (Pierre Coffin) has chronicled the journey of the Minions on their search to find the perfect villain to serve. James has always been a dreamer and is continuously wanting to create art. Ultimately landing in Los Angeles in the 1920s, James becomes enthralled with Hollywood and his life ambition is to create the perfect movie.

The voice talents bring each character to life and enhance the quality of the story telling. For example, Trey Parker voices Goomi and his voice creates the perfect unsuspecting monster, who you want to trust, but at the same time has a hint of devious energy. I like how in-depth the animation goes with its attention to detail and bold colors.  Each part of the Minions’ journey is brought to life with beautiful scenes that James creates with details of adventure, humor, and friendship. My favorite part is when the Minions get to 1920s Hollywood – the historical references to the time period and the references to early Hollywood and films are fun to watch. There are references to several classic films such as The Trip to the Moon and Citizen Kane that help bring the story to life. I love that the film includes lots of content and humor for older audiences to enjoy.

I give Minions & Monsters4 out 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. Minions & Monsters releases in theaters July 1, 2026.

Minions & Monsters

By Leo G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I like Minions & Monsters because it has funny moments and good animation.

The movie Minions & Monsters is the third prequel to the Minions series of movies which are a spin-off of the Despicable Me movies. Minions & Monsters takes place in 1920s Hollywood and follows a new group of Minions:  James, Henry, and Ed (all voiced by Pierre Coffin) who are trying to make a movie about monsters while the rest of their Minion clan searches for their next “Big Boss” to serve.

I liked watching this movie with its funny moments that had me laughing the whole time. For example, the Minions lose their initial Big Boss when he steps on a Minion-made LEGO brick, triggering a destructive chain reaction that results in his entire house breaking down and the Big Boss falling off a cliff.  Another example is when James, Henry and Ed summon a monster from a magical book hoping it will be the star of their monster movie.  The picture of the monster in the book shows a huge scary monster, but when the monster arrives, it is just a small little thing. While James, Henry, and Ed are busy conjuring and then battling monsters, the rest of their Minion clan find their next Big Boss, a robot alien named Dort (Jesse Eisenburg) who is determined to destroy Earth.  In a funny twist, Dort surprises the Minions by putting off Earth domination so that he can go on dates with a human girl instead.  Best of all, this movie has some really good animation that is very nice to look at and kept me invested. 

The film’s message is that you do not have to be the same as everyone else to be successful.

Minions & Monsters gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults.  It releases in theaters on July 1, 2026. 

Plastic-Free July Cleanup Challenge with LA Waterkeeper: Decentralized

Sunday, July 5, 9a-12p

Did you know that July 5 is often deemed the “Trashiest Day of the Year” because of the waste left behind from Fourth of July festivities?

Join LA Waterkeeper in making a positive impact in your community by removing plastic and other trash from your neighborhood, local park, or nearby beach. Together, we can help prevent pollution from entering habitats like the LA River and our beautiful coastline.

Please complete this registration form and review our cleanup manual before getting outside! Need help finding a location to make an impact? Check out our cleanup manual for a list of suggested locations. 

Los Angeles Waterkeeper: https://www.lawaterkeeper.org/

Plastic-Free July Cleanup Challenge with LA Waterkeeper: Santa Monica

Saturday, July 11, 9a-11a

Free event

9a at Santa Monica Beach, Tower 20, 20 Bicknell Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90401

Event link: https://www.lawaterkeeper.org/events/july-2026-c2c 

What: Community beach cleanup as part of Plastic Free July

Region: Los Angeles County

Description:

Join LA Waterkeeper at our Santa Monica Beach Cleanup to celebrate Plastic Free July! Plastic Free July is a global movement that challenges folks to refuse single-use plastics for one month.

This family-friendly event is a great way to build community, learn new ideas for reducing plastic intake, and help create a safer and cleaner environment for all our marine friends.

Please register at https://www.lawaterkeeper.org/events/july-2026-c2c

Los Angeles Waterkeeper: https://www.lawaterkeeper.org/

Plastic-Free July Cleanup Challenge with LA Waterkeeper: North Atwater Park

Saturday, July 18, 9a-11:00a

Free event

9a at North Atwater Park: 3900 Chevy Chase Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90039

Event link: https://www.lawaterkeeper.org/events/july-2026-c2c-raft

What: Community river cleanup as part of Plastic Free July

Region: Los Angeles County

Description:

Join LA Waterkeeper for our Plastic Free July Cleanup at North Atwater Park as part of our Creeks to Coast Cleanup! Take a vital step toward preserving life and safeguarding the beauty of our riparian ecosystems.

We will also spend part of the event looking at the water quality of the LA River that runs next to North Atwater Park. As part of our River Assessment Field Team, volunteers will learn about the LA River’s history and current challenges and use field kits to determine the river’s health and biodiversity.

This family-friendly event welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds. Get ready to have some fun and learn lots!

Please register at https://www.lawaterkeeper.org/events/july-2026-c2c-raft  

Supergirl * Brings A Classic Hero Storyline With Tons Of Action And Fighting Scenes

When an unexpected and ruthless adversary strikes too close to home, Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, reluctantly joins forces with an unlikely companion on an epic, interstellar journey of vengeance and justice. Supergirl is a 2026 American superhero film based on the DC Comics superheroine Kara Zor-El / Supergirl. Directed by Craig Gillespie and written by Ana Nogueira, it is the second film in the DC Universe (DCU). Milly Alcock stars in the title role, alongside Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Krumholtz, Emily Beecham, David Corenswet, and Jason Momoa. In the film, Kara Zor-El travels across the galaxy on a murderous quest for revenge. The film is produced by Peter Safran and James Gunn of DC Studios.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Sydney S. comments, “Supergirl brings a classic hero storyline with tons of action and fighting scenes. While it has some exciting moments and performances, the storyline is predictable and overused, and therefore lacks the surprise element.” See her full review below.

Supergirl

By Sydney S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Supergirl brings a classic hero storyline with tons of action and fighting scenes. While it has some exciting moments and performances, the storyline is predictable and overused, and therefore lacks the surprise element.


The storyline follows Kara Zor-El (Milly Alcock), known as Supergirl, who is Superman’s cousin. She is trying to figure out her life before coming across an unlikely person who needs her help to fight a battle against Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts). The constant fighting creates both allies and enemies. 


The main characters are Kara Zor-El (Supergirl), Ruthye Marye Knoll (Eve Ridley), Superman (David Corenswet), Krem, and Lobo (Jason Momoa). Milly Alcock wonderfully represents Kara’s determination and emotional side, especially in scenes where she struggles to balance her Kryptonian past with her life on Earth. It addresses people finding themselves throughout life. This is something a lot of people struggle with and I like that Kara’s journey can help viewers not feel so alone. Kara isn’t a glamorous superhero. She’s different from others in that she isn’t really well put together, which I think makes her character interesting. On the other hand, the other characters don’t feel well developed and their roles don’t enhance the backstory very much. They aren’t really connected and lack interaction. The costumes, however, are extremely well-made – the aliens look very realistic, as close to what I imagine aliens actually look like! It definitely has an outer space mood. The visual effects are impressive, and the battle scenes are filled with fantastic sound effects. However, at times, the CGI is not very convincing, especially when Supergirl is flying. Also, the soundtrack is disappointing, especially when sad pop songs play during a huge battle scene – it’s a complete mismatch. For the most part, the plot feels very expected and I could guess exactly what would happen next. It’s similar to every superhero movie without extra things to spice it up. My favorite part is when Kara embraces her powers during a huge battle scene. The camera rotates in a circle while everything is in slow motion. It’s definitely an impactful scene.


The film’s message is about choosing the right thing to do, even when it may be difficult. Ruthye wants to avenge her family’s death and kill Krem, but Supergirl assures her that it won’t make her life any better. Revenge isn’t always the answer, but the right decisions do matter. Be forewarned that there is some intense action and fighting, but nothing too extreme for most older kids.

I give Supergirl 3.5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Supergirl releases in theaters June 26, 2026.