The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie * What happens when Daffy Duck and Porky Pig have to save the world from an alien invasion?

That’s not all folks! From Ketchup Entertainment, Warner Bros. Animation, director Pete Browngardt, and the creative team behind the award-winning “Looney Tunes Cartoons” comes a brand new buddy comedy starring one of the greatest comedic duos in history–Porky Pig and Daffy Duck! This richly-crafted, hand-drawn 2D animated adventure marks the first fully-animated feature-length film in Looney Tunes history, told on a scope and scale that’s truly out of this world.  Porky Pig and Daffy Duck venture to the big screen as unlikely heroes and Earth’s only hope when their antics at the local bubble gum factory uncover a secret alien mind control plot. Faced with cosmic odds, the two are determined to save their town (and the world!)… that is if they don’t drive each other totally looney in the process.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Junior R. comments, “What happens when Daffy Duck and Porky Pig have to save the world from an alien invasion? A whole lot of chaos, laughter, and classic Looney Tunes fun!  This film is loaded with new content, delivered in Looney Tunes fashion that I really enjoyed!” Kinsley H. adds, “I really enjoyed the humorous and sticky adventure of The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie which is the first fully animated feature length film in Looney Tunes history. I was launched into a very gooey and fun adventure.” See their full reviews below.

The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie

By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

What happens when Daffy Duck and Porky Pig have to save the world from an alien invasion? A whole lot of chaos, laughter, and classic Looney Tunes fun!  This film is loaded with new content, delivered in Looney Tunes fashion that I really enjoyed!

The storyline follows the wacky adventures of Daffy Duck (Eric Bauza) and Porky Pig (Eric Bauza) straight from the mind of producer (Peter Browngardt), who try to stop aliens from taking over the world.  Daffy is so silly, unpredictable, and always gets into trouble, while Porky tries to keep things under control, with his nervous but kind-hearted personality.

I absolutely love the animation because it looks just like the classic Looney Tunes cartoons my parents used to show me and it brought back a lot of nostalgia, with a twist of new age technology. Every explosion, chase, and gag is packed with eye-catching colors that keep the energy high and the fun non-stop. Porky and Daffy become world heroes by accident when they get off task and mess around at a bubble gum factory and discover a secret alien plan to control people’s minds! A spunky new character joins this crazy duo which makes the perfect Looney Tunes trio, and their adventures are unforgettable and super silly to keep the audience intrigued.  See for yourself to find out what the alien leader is really after.

The film carries themes of friendship, teamwork, and embracing individuality as Daffy Duck and Porky Pig face challenges that test their bond and require them to work together to save the world.  Their journey underscores the importance of collaboration and accepting each other’s quirks to overcome obstacles.  Be forewarned there is content with adult humor and some moments that might frighten younger audiences.

I give The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.  It opens in theaters March 14, 2025.

The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I really enjoyed the humorous and sticky adventure of The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie which is the first fully animated feature length film in Looney Tunes history. I was launched into a very gooey and fun adventure.

The storyline is about Daffy Duck and Porky Pig as they work together to fulfill their promise to Father Jim (Fred Tatasciore) to always take care of their home. Due to very looney space activity, this oath is put to an extreme test that not only challenges Daffy and Porky’s home but also the planet.

The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie stays true to the classic animation of Looney Tunes. The hand drawn cartoons have intricate details that are eye catching and enjoyable to watch. Slapstick humor is definitely at the forefront. Daffy Duck wears his feelings for all to see with everything from bulging heartbeats to a very sensitive exploding head. Unexpected laughable moments occur frequently like when Daffy and Porky desperately try to find a job in a momentary combination of the new and the old. They try to start a rideshare business with a horse and even attempt to become influencers but quickly get cancelled due to inappropriate content. Petunia Pig (Candi Milo) even has a humorous entrance. It is entertaining to watch Porky see her through rose-colored glasses. Petunia’s real look versus what Porky really sees demonstrates that beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder. Even the Invader (Peter MacNicol) is ridiculous due to being a clumsy alien dictator. His scariness does not last long as he continuously falls and drops items all at the worst moments. 

The film’s message is that friendship conquers all. Daffy and Porky always stick together, no matter what challenges come their way. They are direct opposites of each other: Daffy is crazy, and Porky is cautious. However, this mismatched pair ends up being exactly what the world needs. You should be aware that the show does have some cartoon violence action and rude, suggestive humor.

I give The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 9 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters on Friday, March 14, 2025.

Trailer:

The Ballad of Wallis Island * A Unique Film With Wonderful Acting, An Unconventional Story, And Heartfelt Themes

The Ballad Of Wallis Island follows Charles (Tim Key), an eccentric lottery winner who lives alone on a remote island and dreams of getting his favorite musicians, McGwyer Mortimer (Tom Basden & Carey Mulligan) back together. His fantasy turns into reality when the bandmates and former lovers accept his invitation to play a private show at his home on Wallis Island. Old tensions resurface as Charles tries desperately to salvage his dream gig.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Daniel S. comments, “The Ballad of Wallis Island is a unique film that I absolutely loved. Its wonderful performances, unconventional story, and heartfelt themes make The Ballad of Wallis Island a stellar drama.” See his full review below.

The Ballad of Wallis Island

By Daniel Salem, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

The Ballad of Wallis Island is a unique film that I absolutely loved. Its wonderful performances, unconventional story, and heartfelt themes make The Ballad of Wallis Island a stellar drama.

The Ballad of Wallis Island follows the famed singer and songwriter Herb McGwyer (Tom Basden) as he travels to a secluded island for a gig. Hired to perform for two-time lottery winner Charles (Tim Key), Herb is forced not only to put on a good show, but to find himself emotionally, musically, and spiritually along the way.

The performances in The Ballad of Wallis Island are nothing short of spectacular. Although Tom Basden’s Herb McGwyer leads the film, he shares the screen with Tim Key’s Charles, and the two are incredible together. They have a sort of chemistry that feels natural, and watching their friendship blossom throughout the film is a joy. They are polar opposites that are bound together, forced to find common ground. It’s no wonder the two work so well on screen together because they actually wrote the film together! To begin with, Tom Basden’s acting excellently captures the kind of existential crisis of an artist past their prime. Although not uncommon, this theme is a central part of the film. Herb McGwyer has descended from his peak in popularity, and Basden depicts his entrapment in the past so well. Tim Key’s portrayal of Charles is 100% the highlight of the film. He brings a kind and bright energy every time he is on screen, which works perfectly to counteract the gloomy Herb. All of Key’s comedic lines are well-delivered, and his witty, but lighthearted demeanor uplifts the film. Both Basden and Key experience an emotional arc together that is beautiful to watch. Academy Award nominee Carrey Mulligan not only produces, but stars in this film as well. Mulligan plays Nell Mortimer, the other half of “McGwyer Mortimer,” an incredibly popular music duo. Her portrayal as a former musician is outstanding and starkly contrasts with Herb’s personality. Their onscreen dynamic is great, as is their chemistry. They are past lovers, and watching them reunite after years, and dissect the band’s falling out is very interesting. The Ballad of Wallis Island is rather unusual in that it takes place in one location – an island in the middle of nowhere. Wallis Island is tucked away from the rest of society, and therefore cut off from Wi-Fi, technology, and civilization. It feels as though Wallis Island has its own personality in its transformative nature. It morphs the characters emotionally, and puts them to the test. Both Herb and Nell are trapped and pushed to figure out what they want. Are they truly just seeking payment for the gig, or are they looking for something deeper, like a connection?

The Ballad of Wallis Island juggles several mature themes, including societal isolation and the cost of fame, but the film’s message is about the importance of human relationships. We find Herb kind of disappointed with himself, and discouraged, but only until he goes to Wallis Island does he begin to find meaning in his life. Through his friendship with Charles, a man with whom he is completely different, he finds what is missing in his life and art – human connection and companionship. Ironically, his adventure to a place secluded from all society is where he learns the power of the bonds and friendships he builds.

I give The Ballad of Wallis Island 4 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Ballad of Wallis Island releases exclusively in theaters March 28, 2025.

Travels with Agatha Christie & Sir David Suchet * An Incredible Look At The People And Places That Inspired The This Amazing Author

Photos: (c) Soho Studios Entertainment/Two Rivers Media

This series sees British national treasure Sir David Suchet (Poirot) travel around the world, following in the footsteps of the Queen of mystery, Dame Agatha Christie. Before becoming the world’s best-selling author, Agatha Christie embarked upon a world tour in 1922 with her husband at age 31. Her ten-month itinerary of the then British Empire took her across South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, along with a holiday to Hawaii. Perceptions of Agatha Christie’s character tend to be dominated by the persona she adopted in public life, when she was seen as a shy individual who disliked fame. But this was a defensive wall erected by Agatha. Now, 100 years on, this journey is an opportunity for Sir David, and all fans of the author, to discover a lesser-known Agatha – the woman she really was. And through recreating her surprising and fascinating journey, he’ll also have a unique chance to explore the history and complex legacy of the British Empire.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Isabella V. comments, “Travels with Agatha Christie & Sir David Suchet is an incredible and informative documentary that informs us so much about Agatha Christie and the places and cultures that inspired her. I learned so much about so many different cultures and their history that I never would have known without watching this.” See her full review below.

Travels with Agatha Christie & Sir David Suchet 
By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13 

Travels with Agatha Christie & Sir David Suchet is an incredible, and informative documentary that informs us so much about Agatha Christie and the places and cultures that inspired her. I learned so much about so many different cultures and their history that I never would have known without watching this. 

This five-part docu-series follows Sir David Suchet as he follows in the footsteps of Agatha Christie, visiting the places she used in her novels. While doing this he learns more about Agatha Christie herself, the history of these places and what they were like when she was there. 

The cinematography is gorgeous; every shot is so thoughtfully planned and has such beauty. I especially love the shot over Victoria Falls in Episode One. They also picked the perfect person to host this series; not only is Sir David Suchet entertaining and charismatic, he also knows what he’s talking about. He played Agatha Christie’s character Hercule Poirot for 25 years and is extremely dedicated to learning more about her and the places seen in her stories, making him an amazing guide. The amount of information given in this series is outstanding, there are so many facts and details about her and these locations, and they take time to flesh out these ideas; every piece of information helps us better understand who this remarkable author really was. Sir Suchet recreates her journey here to Southern Africa, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. One of my favorite places to learn about was Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, which Agatha Christie visited when going to Australia. Another experience of hers I enjoyed learning about was her ride on the Puffing Billing Railway, and the current unique features it has to offer with being able to sit on the windows.

This series allowed me to understand a woman, who I knew almost nothing about beforehand, in a deep way. It also teaches us about so many different cultures and regions and helps us see the difference between what they were like during Christie’s era and today.  

The series’ message is about going for what you want to do, even if it might not seem possible. Agatha Christie wrote mystery novels at a time when it was very unusual for women to do so, and she was extremely successful. Be warned that the series mentions and discusses topics such as slavery and racism. 

I give Travels with Agatha Christie & Sir David Suchet 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on BritBox on March 8, 2025. 

Plankton: The Movie * Fun Storyline, Fantastic Voice Acting and Encouraging Message

When Karen the Computer decides to take over the world, it’s up to Plankton to stop her – with a little help from SpongeBob and the Gal Pals (Pearl, Sandy, and Mrs. Puff).

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Ari C. comments, “I absolutely love Plankton: The Movie. The fun storyline and fantastic voice acting gave me lots of giggles. I also love the visually amusing graphics and the fun and happy atmosphere. You may be thinking that this is just another SpongeBob movie, if so, you are sorely mistaken. This is Plankton’s (Mr. Lawrence) movie. The film’s message is that love is all you really need.” See his full review and interview below.

Plankton: The Movie
By Ari C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 12

I absolutely love Plankton: The Movie. The fun storyline and fantastic voice acting gave me lots of giggles. I also love the visually amusing graphics and the fun and happy atmosphere.

You may be thinking that this is just another SpongeBob movie, if so, you are sorely mistaken. This is Plankton’s (Mr. Lawrence) movie. After 20 years of being pushed around and dismissed, Plankton’s wife, Karen (Jill Talley), has had enough. Plankton’s epic failures at world domination has Karen fed up. She is ready to remind him that she can be three times as evil and should not be ignored. Their marriage problems swirl into world-wide chaos. Unlikely characters must team up to save Bikini Bottom, the whole world, and a marriage.

This film is engaging with its amazing graphics; I feel like I am in a visual circus.  I commend Mr. Lawrence for voice acting Plankton and for writing the story.  Mauricio Bartok and Piyush Dhuppe are the animators for this film and they have created a virtual visual playground.  This film is like a roller-coaster that took me on an awesome adventure with its many twists and surprises. It still keeps the classic SpongeBob characters such as SpongeBob (Tom Kenny), Patrick (Bill Fagerbakke), and Mr. Krabs (Clancy Brown). This movie is absolutely hilarious. Even though I don’t watch SpongeBob a lot, I really enjoyed the comedy and have always been a Plankton fan. I love how Mr. Lawrence has held on to his role as Plankton, going back to when he started in 1999. It’s amazing that he has stuck to this role for so long. Everything from the fantastic storyline to the mesmerizing animation make this film a treat to enjoy. There are a couple of heartwarming scenes, but there are also plenty of action scenes that give the movie a thrill. My favorite part is when an implant causes Plankton to have a wild hallucination. That was crazily exciting and fun.

The film’s message is that love is all you really need.

I give Plankton The movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It releases on Netflix March 7, 2025.

The Electric State * An Eerie Parallel To The Future Of Modern Technology, While Also Connecting With The Nostalgia Of The 90s

Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Simon Stålenhag, the story takes place in a reimagined version of 1997. With humans isolated in their VR helmets and a continuing battle against a strange breed of monstruous drones in the wake of a technological meltdown, a teenage girl named Michelle and a robot travel the West Coast of the U.S in search of the girl’s missing brother.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine S. comments, “I really enjoyed The Electric State! This film is loosely based on the illustrated novel of the same name and is an eerie parallel to the future of modern technology, while also connecting with the nostalgia of the 90s. The scary part of this movie is that I can envision the future of our world looking something like this.” See her full review and interviews with the directors and cast members below.

The Electric State

By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

I really enjoyed The Electric State! This film is loosely based on the illustrated novel of the same name and is an eerie parallel to the future of modern technology, while also connecting with the nostalgia of the 90s. The scary part of this movie is that I can envision the future of our world looking something like this.

The Electric State is a science fiction adventure comedy drama film directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. The storyline follows Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown), an orphaned teenager, as she travels through the American West in search of her younger brother in a dystopian version of the late 1990s. She meets a robot resembling a cartoon, a smuggler (Christ Pratt) and his robot companion, Herman (Anthony Mackie), and along the way she discovers the corruption in their world.

Although inspired by the book The Electric State by Simon Stålenhag, fans of the graphic novel should keep in mind that this movie is very different from it at times. It explores the characters from the books but adds new characters, increasing the complexity and development of the world. The CGI is very high quality – nearly the whole movie and almost all of the characters are CGI and I could barely tell because they look so realistic. I also truly love the cartoony design of the characters as they add to the uneasy and dystopian feeling of the world. The acting is superb. I connected with all of the characters and even got a bit emotional at the end. Chris Pratt’s character, Keats, and Herman the robot (Anthony Mackie) have so much chemistry with their funny banter and love-hate relationship, even though Herman is completely animated. Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt also have terrific chemistry and it was so entertaining to watch their relationship evolve. Stanley Tucci, as Ethan, and Giancarlo Esposito, as the Colonel, are both such dynamic characters and it was very interesting to see them together.

The Electric State emphasizes the importance of family, whether by blood or by choice. It also highlights the importance of respecting everyone and everything. The neurocasters and advanced technology in this world serve as a warning to our society to live in the moment and not forget the importance of human interaction and connection. Be forewarned that there is some profanity and depictions of war.

I give The Electric State 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on Netflix on March 14, 2025.

Book of the Day: TOGETHER, A FOREST by Roz MacLean

Such beautiful illustrations and an engaging story!

In this breathtaking new picture book, readers will explore a forest with a classroom of students, experiencing and learning about the essential beauty of diversity in humanity and nature. Together, a Forest begins as an exciting journey into nature and blossoms into a meditation on how our unique personalities and ways of being help create a more vibrant and beautiful world. This book highlights the importance of interdependence, inclusion and celebrating diversity in our communities.

I highly recommend this book and love how it focuses on the beauty of diversity!

https://us.macmillan.com/mackids/

Self Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book to feature. The image was also provided.

March – Monthly Book Recommedations

It’s time to spring clean your reading list with these new page-turners that are full of adventures, friendships, and even fun festivals.

Alycat and the Copycat by Alysson Foti Bourque

Alycat is excited that it’s Science Fair Day, but why is her classmate copying almost everything about her, from the shirt she’s wearing to the project she’s doing? Soon Alycat learns, through patience and kindness, that two similar things can be better when they work together. This latest addition to the kitten picture-book series includes STEM themes plus instructions for making your own glitter volcano!

An Alani Adventure by Tara Lala

Leia, Ohana, and Kai are three siblings who have never ventured off of the island of Maui. When a dormant volcano suddenly awakens and threatens their home, they are gifted a magic map that allows them to explore different countries all around the world. What treasures does the map want them to find? Will they be able to follow its clues in time? Or will the volcano erupt and destroy their island before they return?

Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends by Jen Kirkley

Willard DoGooder has trouble making friends in his new class. Things are just…different. One day, Willard spots a magical trail that leads him on an adventure filled with curiosity, fun, and new friends, as he learns how to think through and celebrate differences.Each friend that Willard DoGooder meets on the trail, teaches him how we can approach differences, learn from one another, and appreciate each other. Over the course of the book, Willard learns a three-step process for approaching differences: Name the difference, find the good, and move on with kindness. With characters based on the author’s children, and issues they’ve learned how to work through together, Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends, is a fantastic adventure grounded with a message that we can all use in our daily life.

Hannah Bear and LuLu’s Festival to Remember by Julie Hooks

Two adorable bears set out to find the source of an irresistible aroma and wind up smack dab in the middle of the most exciting place on earth―a festival! Join Hannah Bear and LuLu on a thrilling journey as they explore the blinking lights, the spinning rides, and delicious food! The adventurous cubs sample every delectable delight at the big autumn event, from spicy cracklins, pecans, and pralines to other Louisiana treats. As the wind picks up, Hannah Bear and LuLu catch a whiff of something truly special that leads them through the pumpkin patch and across Bayou Bridge. They even encounter an alligator! Follow Hannah Bear and LuLu to the perfect spot with the most delicious smell of all.

A Sloth Story * A Heartfelt Theme, Great Animation And Complex Characters Like A Sloth Who Wants To Move Fast!

After a terrifying storm destroys their home, a speedy sloth named Laura and her kooky family move to the big city in their rusted old food truck hoping to make their business a success.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoey F. comments, “I really like A Sloth Story! It has a heartfelt theme, great animation and complex characters. I especially like the animation which is extremely unique and beautiful. I also find the idea of a sloth wanting to go fast humorous. Laura is constantly saying that everyone is too slow for her. This is a bit ironic considering sloths are slow-moving animals.” Adele B. adds, “The movie has a terrific balance of comical and heartwarming moments. I constantly found myself entertained and laughing. I especially loved watching Luis’s character with his fun sense of humor despite his challenges.  Laura’s family always supports her and has her back.” Luna C. wraps it up with, “A Sloth Story is a delightful and unexpected film, brimming with real-life moments, valuable lessons, and a refreshing dose of hard work that kept me hooked from start to finish.” See their full reviews below.

A Sloth Story
By Zoey F., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I really like A Sloth Story! It has a heartfelt theme, great animation and complex characters.

The plot follows Laura (Teo Vergara), a young sloth as she goes through the struggles of her life. Laura feels as though no one, especially her mother, Mama (Olivia Vasquez), takes her seriously. But after a horrible storm her family is forced to move to the city. Laura’s idol, Dotty Paste (Leslie Jones) is also in the city, motivating her to want to go. After business at Laura’s family’s café starts booming, Dotty gets jealous. She devises a plan to steal Mama’s recipe book. Now, the Romero-Flores’ family must try to find a way to get the precious recipe book back!

One aspect I especially like is the animation which is extremely unique and beautiful. I also find the idea of a sloth wanting to go fast humorous. Laura is constantly saying that everyone is too slow for her. This is a bit ironic considering sloths are slow-moving animals. I also enjoyed the complexity of Mama’s character. She is portrayed as Laura’s main enemy. Laura feels as though her mother is always getting in her way. But it turns out that Mama was exactly like Laura when she was young. Her age is a huge struggle for her, and she keeps forgetting things, but she keeps Lyra close in fear of forgetting Laura too. A Sloth Story explores the rich culture of Spanish culture and is incorporated in the food, language, and clothing in the film. This adds a lot to the movie.

The message of A Sloth Story is about the importance of family. This is shown when Laura sacrifices so much for her family. She is constantly reminded that her family is her ultimate team, which is an important theme to remember.

I give A Sloth Story 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It releases in theaters February 28, 2025.

A Sloth Story
By Adele Rayna B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 11

A Sloth Story is an exciting family friendly movie with heartwarming themes. The story takes you on a dynamic adventure that kept me on the edge of my seat with so many hilarious moments. Overall, the vibrant and crisp animation brings to life the engaging and unique character designs.

The story follows Laura (Teo Vergara), a young sloth whose family owns a restaurant. After an unexpected storm destroys their restaurant, they move to the city to start over, but business isn’t so good and Laura‘s Mom (Olivia Vasquez) and Dad (Ben Gorrono) start to think maybe the move to the big city wasn’t such a good idea. Laura comes up with the idea to bring in more business which works well, but the owner of a competing restaurant (Leslie Jones) is jealous .  Laura and her family embark on a mission fighting for their family legacy. You’ll have to watch to find out if it works.


The movie has a terrific balance of comical and heartwarming moments. I constantly found myself entertained and laughing. I especially loved watching Luis’s character with his fun sense of humor despite his challenges.  Laura’s family always supports her and has her back. I like Laura and her brother Mani’s (Facundo Hache Herrera) relationship. They are believable as playful and loveable siblings. A perfect moment is when Laura comforts Mani, when he thinks his ideas for the mural are terrible. And, in the next scene we see him pick on Laura, but in a sweet way. One of my most memorable moments is the way the mom, Gabriella, is there for her daughter by putting her above all else. It’s very touching and shows true love. The animation kept my attention with its crispness and smooth character movement. It makes it very easy to watch, like effortless paint strokes across canvas. The animation is very detailed such as the scene where little sparks form around Laura’s head to highlight her worried feelings. To show excitement they added stars in her eyes. I love the overall character designs – Laura’s character is fantastic, right down to the details of her necklace and the striking color of her pink belt. I also love Dotti’s suit as it’s very colorful and it shows her bubbly, yet mischievous, personality.

The film’s message is that family always has your back and believes in you when it matters most. Family can always see the spark in you and will stop at nothing to protect that.

I give A Sloth Story 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. It releases in theaters on February 28, 2025.

A Sloth Story

By Luna C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9

A Sloth Story is a delightful and unexpected film, brimming with real-life moments, valuable lessons, and a refreshing dose of hard work that kept me hooked from start to finish.

After a devastating storm destroys their rural home, Laura (Teo Vergara), a quick-witted sloth, and her quirky family move to the bustling big city. Eager to make their food truck business a success, they must adapt to the fast-paced, high-energy expectations of city life. Along the way, Laura juggles her responsibilities as a team member in her family business while also playing on a cricket team with her new friends.

This is a charming, heartfelt film. I appreciate the relatable animation and storyline – even though the film features animals, the environments and situations are familiar to real life. One of my favorite moments is when Laura finally finds time to bond with her cricket team. It’s heartwarming to see her kind and welcoming relationship with her teammates. The music, composed by Aalex Heffe, is another standout element. With its Spanish influence, it adds a vibrant rhythm to the film that had me tapping my feet along with the characters.

The film offers two key messages: sometimes what we think we want isn’t what we truly need and home is wherever you put your heart.

I give A Sloth Story 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 12, or anyone who enjoys a story about family, friendship, and traditions. It releases in theaters on February 28, 2025.

Trailer: