Based on the characters from Peabody’s Improbably History which were included in 1960s animated TV series The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show, this new 3D film from DreamWorks Animation and 20^th Century Fox is sure to resonate with adults as well as kids.  Tiffany Ward, daughter of Jay Ward, one of the creators of the original series, is the executive producer. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gerry O. was surprised at how much he enjoyed the film. “Fastastic” is the word he uses to describe it. See his full review below.

Mr. Peabody and Sherman

Reviewed by Gerry Orz

I saw the trailers and I expected it to be more concentrated on time travel and not have much of a story line. Well there is. A fantastic one at that! “Mr. Peabody and Sherman” is a wonderful story about a dog who adopts a boy.

The film also has lots of animated things to love – like history, comedy, romance, suspense and so much more. To make it even better – characters come to live thanks to the brilliant voice-over actors such as Ty Burrel and Max Charles.

The film starts when a young puppy is growing up in different shelters. From a very early age he shows everyone how very special he is. He is intelligent, athletic and smooth. He wins many prizes, but his greatest adventure happens when he adopts a boy. Together they go through multiple adventures and troubles but able to stay together.

I love so much about this film. The film itself is fantastic! I love how they take twenty five-minute shows that had old, colored 2-D animation and turn it into modern 3D animation with the use of modern technology.

My favorite scene is when they show the story of how Mr. Peabody adopts Sherman. They show points throughout Sherman’s little life of great moments, like his first step in 1709.  Then it shows how he finds Sherman. That is definitely a sweet and loving part!

This movie has a bit of violence in it, therefore I recommend it to ages 5-18. I also believe that adults who admired this cartoon kids, will love this new version of these beloved characters. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

Credit: KIDS FIRST! Coming Attractions

Although this may not be the usual genre that I would select to read, I found this to be a great read! The story is action-packed! It is a tad bit violent at moments but most science fiction with battles are. What I liked was that this was more than just a battle between good and evil! This story is an engaging one about a kingdom on another planet. The King marries a woman who is not in the same race. She is not Darracia and is Planta. Those who can’t accept this, can’t accept change and are set in the old ways. Unfortunately, one of those is none other than the own King’s brother. *Schism means a split or division between strongly opposed sections or parties, caused by differences in opinion or belief.* Cash could not have chosen a better title to fit this book. He weaves this story with great imagination and it engaged me from beginning to ending. His descriptions and characters are so well done that I felt myself rooting for good to win over evil. Back to the story- the King of Darracia and his wife, the Queen have a son, who of course, has traits from both of his parents. Prince V’Sair is the young son who is half Darracia and half Planta. He really is the best of both although he feels inferior and is angry especially because he has not been told the secrets of the elements. What? Elements? I don’t want to give away the entire plot but the elements teach valuable lessons. The boy’s Uncle and his wife decide to attempt to take over the kingdom and there is a battle. Can Prince V’Sair save the day, so to speak? He is young but he may just do it with some help, of course! You will have to read the book to find out! I actually couldn’t put the book down once I started reading it. This turned out to be one of my favorite books by Micheal Phillip Cash and I am looking forward to Schism: Book ll.
Self Disclosure: I received this book for free to review but all opinions expressed are truthful. This is not a children’s recommended book.

With Lent just a few days away, this film is timely and appropriate for Christians. The life story of Jesus is told from his humble birth through his teachings, crucifixion and ultimate resurrection. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jailene A., age 13 says, “This is the most eye-opening, magnificent film I have ever seen.” See her full review below.

The Son of God
Reviewed by Jailene A.
Full video review here.

This is the most eye-opening, magnificent film I have ever seen. “The Son of God” is about the story of Jesus. This movie modernizes the scriptures of the Bible along with showing everyone the miracles of Jesus. This movie really touched me because of the intensity and power it contains. From the minute Jesus is born, this movie shows every sin he forgives to the crucifixion and resurrection of the Holy Spirit. This movie will make you want to learn more about the Bible and everything about religion. I think the entire cast does such a great job portraying such powerful characters and I think everyone should watch this movie.

This movie has so many qualities that make it great but a key quality is the incredible location where they shot the movie. The movie is filmed in Morocco which is an incredible touch because it really makes the surroundings look like Jerusalem. I really like how Diogo Morgado, who plays Jesus in the film, really got into character and prepared fr such a powerful role.

My favorite character is Mary Magdalene because of her bravery and intense courage. She was one of Jesus’ disciples. She is the first one to find out that Jesus has resurrected and she never had one doubt about who Jesus was. I admire her loyalty and I think she doesn’t get as much recognition as she should.

My favorite scene is when Jesus gets into Peter’s boat and Peter says that there are no fish in the lake anymore. Jesus puts his hands in the ocean and in a matter of seconds; Peter’s net is filled with tons of fish. Peter asks what they are going to do and Jesus says that they are going to change the world. I think this is the best scene because of how touching and inspirational it is. It really shows that if you have faith and believe in the Son of God, anything is possible. This scene is the start of something powerful and I loved it.

I recommend this movie for audiences 13 and over because of the intense and bloody depiction of the Crucifixion and other violent scenes. This movie is very touching and inspirational. I give this movie 5 out of 5 stars because I enjoyed it a lot and it makes me want to know more about the life of Jesus and more of his miracles. This movie is in theaters February 28^th 2014 so make sure you check it out!

Jailene A., 13, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic