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33
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32

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August 24, 2015
Last review
June 16, 2017
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4.7

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kidsfirstmedia's Reviews

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Alisa Knows What to Do: Season 1 [DVD]

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Great Special Effects, Adventures and Lessons

on June 16, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

There are not many animated kid shows that can teach important life lessons, entertain and spark the viewer’s imagination. Alisa Knows What to Do: Season One accomplishes all of this and more. Even though it is meant for kids, this animated series is perfect for the entire family.

The show has a core of a futuristic adventure with many different elements for viewers to enjoy. Throughout the episodes, viewers will find plenty of comedy that makes everyone laugh. It also includes quite a few of child-friendly action sequences and even some slight young romance between the characters.

Even though each episode has a different plot, the series follows the story of five teenagers living in the year 2090, where there are aliens, robots, spaceships and many advanced pieces of technology. Alisa is always there to save the day with her skills and quick wit to stop evil monsters and evil scientists, rescue her friends and preserve endangered inter-galactical animals.

Overall, this DVD offers a very entertaining collection of episodes with unique stories that always have surprise endings. I also love the interesting perspective of the future. It feels possible but still makes you dream about endless possibilities. The animation itself is a quite different style than what is generally seen on TV, due to being produced in Moscow. One small issue that is very apparent throughout the show is the dubbing. Due to being converted from Russian to English, there are many times when the characters’ lips do not match the audio perfectly. The problem isn’t too noticeable most of the time, but there are scenes where it is distracting.

My favorite episode is Games without Rules. In this episode, a new museum about the history of the galaxy opens on Pluto. The top scientists, including Alisa’s father, attend the opening. Disaster strikes when an eclipse by a Pluto moon causes the release of “Zye” waves, which turns people into statues. Luckily Alisa and her friend find out about this and destroy a crystal to rescue the people. The animation of the museum and the dwarf planet is beautiful and the plot has unexpected and entertaining twists.

The show is meant for kids, but there are some darker aspects of some episodes. For that reason, I recommend it for ages 10 to 18. I give the DVD 4.5 out of 5 stars because there of the small issue with the dubbing, but other than that, the show is entertaining, has strong messages and is perfect for the whole family.

Reviewed by Gerry O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst dot org.

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Octonauts: 12 Rescue Missions [DVD]

In twelve stories from the animated children's show, a team of curious animals explore the oceans of the world, looking for creatures to protect and new adventures to embark upon. Directed by Darragh O'Connell and Nicky Phelan. Voiced by Adam Idelson, Billy Aronson, Cydne Clark, and Myles McLeod.

Customer Rating

Wonderful collection all about marine life

on June 6, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

This is a great DVD! The collection not only features a new sea creature every episode, but includes facts about the ocean in general. This show helps children look at the world around them and realize that there are other forms of life that may need our help.

The songs are fun and catchy. The characters present many facts about interesting sea life, problems facing our environment and marine life and offer ways in which we can do our part to spread the word and be proactive about positive change. Show this to children to boost their interest in marine life, sea creatures, pollution, global warming, endangered underwater species and much more.

The option to choose individual episodes gives you the control to present as much or as little info as you like. Hopefully, kids will use fun and informative media to learn about important issues that we face today and use it to be the change our future depends on.

This DVD includes a collection of twelve episodes that teaches lessons about teamwork, diversity, rules, seal life and protecting the planet. It has a main menu that includes Play All Episodes, Play episodes individually and Creature Reports which is an in depth look at the creatures and main songs from individual episodes. The DVD has great visual appeal! The cover is colorful and has a shiny, raised surface. The characters are fun and cute with unique personalities. The production quality is clear, concise and really fun to watch. There are catchy and informative songs that help you retain the information from the episode and will surely stick in your head for the day! The characters’ voices are calm and your child is never prompted to yell, scream or shout out answers. In fact, the characters don't talk directly to you. They speak to each other about teamwork, determination, learning and helping other creatures and the environment.

The characters are great social models for children. They show diversity in behaviors and personalities and also use teamwork to solve problems together. The interactions are done respectfully and characters with certain stronger skills step in and help out those who could use guidance and support.

There are important issues approached in each episode, such as pollution, but they're presented in a way that children are comfortable moving forward with questions and exploring. This show debuted on TV in 2010, so it has perfected its structure and style. It has a clear beginning and end that is easy for children to understand. Each episode averages between 10 to 14 minutes, so it is perfect for short viewings and discussion afterwards. The only unappealing factor in this collection is that there is no female character that actually lead adventures. All the proactive protagonists are male. The two female characters, Tweak and Dashi are generally left behind on the base while the three main male characters take an active role. Unfortunately, it's missed opportunities via media such as this that could encourage girls to pursue an interest in science.

Children will enjoy this because of the relatable characters, fun songs, information about sea creatures and grand adventures! I give it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 10. Reviewed by Eli B., KIDS FIRST! Juror. For more reviews of shows for kids and families, go to kidsfirst dot org.

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Super 4: Welcome to Enchanted Island! [DVD]

Customer Rating

Where fantasy and creativity reign supreme!

on June 6, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

I love that this DVD is filled with creativity and fantasy, factors that truly draw children’s attention. Each story has witches, fairies, enchanted worlds and many other fanciful things. Since young children have big imaginations and tend to be extremely creative, they are automatically drawn to the show since they can relate to the fantasies in each episode. Their open imagination allows them to dream about these unique and special creatures. I understand why kids love the series so much.

In this show, the characters go on adventure after adventure to help their friends solve problems or situations they are in on the Enchanted Island. They get into very funny and odd situations that children will relate to as something that is actually possible. Of course, using magic to help them adds to the intrigue.

My favorite scene from this collection is when the queen’s head turns into a frog as she attempts to make herself more beautiful. She wants to try, but fails and has to deal with the consequences. This scene demonstrates how the shows’ makers incorporate things that children will easily be drawn into. It’s typical of young children dream of and imagine. Also, it is quite funny to see how they manage to make this funny scene part of the story.

The episodes truly excels at entertaining children and making them have a great time while watching. It offers positive role models and a theme of friendship. The Super 4 friends band together to fight villains and save their worlds from chaos. I can honestly commend the makers of this show on their smart and intelligent writing. While at first look, it appears as a length infomercial for Playmobil toys, it is more than that. The stories are unique and special and geared appropriate for its young audience. It’s highly entertaining and fun. I wish the females were more engaging. I rate this DVD 3 out of 5 and recommend it for ages 3 to 8.

Reviewed by Alejandra G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst dot org

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Kuu Kuu Harajuku: Music Baby! [DVD]

Customer Rating

These adventures are crazy and humorous

on May 23, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

The adventures on this DVD are crazy and humorous! The perfect animation colors and style make this concoction a work of art that is pure genius. This is an adorable fun world full of fashion, original songs and five smart girls with problem solving skills and teamwork.

I adore the likable, optimistic characters including G (Maggie Chretien), the leader of the band HJ5 who is ready for a challenge at all times. She believes nothing is impossible. This is why she is my favorite character. Fun fact: G is supposed to be represent Gwen Stefani in encouraging young girls to become themselves and to have faith in each other as well. Baby (Charlotte Nicdao) loves everything and just wants to give everyone a hug and talk things out. Love (Daisy Masterman) is the brainiac. She knows her technology and her brain is big and chocked full of knowledge. She is one smart cookie. Music (Sally Taylor-Isherwood) is the sarcastic, sassy one who knows what to do and when to do it. Angle (Emma Taylor-Isherwood) is the girl to call on when you need an outfit for an event. She loves fashion and shopping. They all want the best for each other while they try to make it as a girl band. They are true to themselves and believe every problem has a solution.

The voiceover talent is fantastic. They know how to bring out the perfect tones for each character. Gwen Stefani is the executive producer and along with her, many other wonderful actresses are a part of this crew. Lessons to be learned from the show are inspirational and helpful. HJ5 helps kids learn to be themselves and accept who they are. That is what makes this show so special. People are all different and have a unique quality about them. The world would be boring if everyone was the same. We should accept each other’s differences. It is okay to be different. Embrace our differences and have fun with it. That is what makes you who you are and what makes you special and unique.

Phony ponies is the cutest episode. It reminds me of the Kentucky Derby because of the hats that they wear, like the actual Kentucky Derby. My mom and I always wear crazy hats and watch the horse races. Team work is a great theme for this show. The music is originally and catchy. It makes you feel good and you want to sing along. The animation is perfect as are the colors and style. All the colors are eye catching and fun. On the other hand, the style is perfect. I love the complex shapes and details and the way that they make it all work together.

I recommend this funtastic DVD for ages 4 to 12. For kids who love music, fashion and adorableness, this fabulous DVD will be a hit. I give it 5 out of 5 “Kawaii” (Japanese for cute) singing stars.

Reviewed by Morgan B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst dot org.

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Transformers: Robots in Disguise: Collection: Overloaded & Decepticon Island [DVD]

Customer Rating

Great message, great animation

on May 23, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

Transformers Robots in Disguise is a great double-feature package. The animation and voice acting are really good. Transformers fans will rejoice at this movie.

The double-feature follows two stories. In the first one, “Overloaded,” Optimus Prime (Peter Cullen) is powered down and splits the team in two with Bumblebee in defense of the junkyard. Bumblebee (Will Friedle) runs into Overload (Dave Fennoy), a Decepticon, while the rest of the team runs into Polarclaw. In the second one, “Decepticon Island,” Bumblebee, in lead of the team, discovers information which leads to Decepticon Island where the Mini-Bots are held captive. The team attempt to free the Mini-Bots. However, the plan fails when Steeljaw (Troy Baker) captures the team.

Peter Cullen as Optimus Prime steals the show with a voice of iron. His portrayal of leadership works well, too and he is my favorite character. Will Friedle as Bumblebee presents an immature attitude to Optimus especially when he disagrees with Optimus. Dave Fennoy as Overload is funny with his finesse of theater. Troy Baker as Steeljaw is deceptive with his use of tricks to climb the power ladder of the Decepticon. Darren Criss as Sideswipe displays a constant, competitive banter with Strongarm, who is another Autobot. Constance Zimmer as Strongarm portrays her banter with Sideswipe quite well. Khary Payton as Grimlock, a Dinobot transformer, provides excellent comedic relief. Mitchell Whitfield as Fixit, is a Mini-Bot who expresses his care to his fellow captured Mini-Bots.

From the emotions portrayed in the characters’ faces to the fluid action, the animation by Amrish Sharma is impressive. His handling of the characters’ emotions between Optimus Prime and Bumblebee in the second feature, “Decepticon Island,” is an example. My favorite scene is when Steeljaw corners the Autobots due to his impressive character introduction. My only problem with this double-feature is the lack of introduction of the characters and the lack of history about the different types of robotic characters.

The movie’s message is all about the importance of teamwork. Despite Optimus Prime’s weakness, the team works together to complete the mission with tremendous success. I give this movie 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 6 to 12 because the action scenes between the two robot factions appeal to the younger audiences.

Reviewed by Arjun N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst dot org.

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The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!: Camping [DVD]

Customer Rating

Gets You in the Mood for Summer Camping

on May 23, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

I absolutely love all the different things I learned about from this DVD! The animation is spot on in this show which brings out a lot of cool stuff. In this collection, the Cat in the Hat, Nick, Sally, Fish, Thing One and Thing Two are all back for new and exciting adventures about camping. It makes the perfect summer DVD for kids who love Dr. Seuss’s terrific characters and stories. I enjoyed watching this so much because it is interesting and enjoyable and shows so many different people from all around the world. I imagine that kids from everywhere will enjoy this since camping is something everyone can do.

My favorite scene features a crafty squirrel who borrows food. We are in the great outdoors and have to remember that humans are in animal territory so, they need to be kind to the animals. The voice actors truly fit their characters, especially Martin Short as the Cat in the Hat. Mr. Short’s energetic voice over suits the Cat so well. His voice is very unique which makes his character always so fun, happy, encouraging and knowledgeable. He makes watching the show a treat.

Electronics rule the world today, so camping is great way to get back to nature. Leave the phones at home and go outside and enjoy the world. This is the great lesson on this DVD. I would like to go camping this year for a fun vacation. It might even start a family tradition that my family and I would enjoy – time away from electronics exploring the wonderful world we live in. It is so easy to sit and worry that everything will go wrong, but things tend to always work out. Spend less time worrying and more time enjoying life is a message I took away from this.

There is no fishing on this camping trip since the goal is to take Fish to his family reunion. We see family members coming together from all difference places to get reacquainted with one another and connect in new ways. It is always fun to see our family members from far away, listen to their stories about the past and learn about others in your extended family. I’m going to make this part of my summer plan.

I recommend this DVD for kids ages 4 to 12. You can learn a lot about camping, friendship and family reunions while watching this adventure. It is very catchy and perfect for summer. If you’re looking for something to do this summer, then this will give you some wonderful ideas. I give this terrific DVD 5 out of 5 camping adventure stars.

Reviewed by Morgan B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst dot org.

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Digimon Adventure Tri: Reunion [Blu-ray] [2015]

Customer Rating

Great Animation, Real Fan Pleaser

on May 23, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

Digimon Adventure Tri.: Reunion is a fun return to the world of Digimon’s Digital Monsters with epic battles and powerful Digimon that should definitely appeal to fans of the original series.

Many years have passed since the original show and the characters are now in high school. Tai encounters a strange Digimon that jeopardizes the reputation of the rest of the magical creatures. Tai is reunited with the rest of the Digidestined and they come together with their Digimon to fight against the destructive monsters that Tai encounters. As this threat becomes more hostile, the Digidestined must work together to fight against it.

My favorite part of this film is the climactic final battle. Seeing the Digidestined fight against one common evil is very epic. This scene feels like it has real stakes to it. I honestly was unsure of what would happen next. It is a nice pay-off for what the film has been building up to the whole time. The Digimon really let loose and you finally really get to see the grand scale of their powers onscreen in a rewarding way.

I do not like the ending to this film. It might catch you off guard with an ending that feels abrupt. You could argue that they chose to end it this way because this film has two other sequels, but I think they could have at least added one more scene.

This film is a little confusing. I know little of the Digimon mythos and there is some exposition that I don’t understand. However, this series’ welcoming nature though makes up for that. Even though I do not know the characters, they interact in a way that made me feel as if I knew them already. I mostly credit the voice cast for this. They have never played these characters before or worked together, but it feels as if they’ve known each other for a long time and their chemistry feels very much believable.

I give this DVD an age rating of 5 to 14. It’s pretty much for all ages and, if you’re a fan of Digimon, I highly recommend it. I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. Fans of Digimon will really enjoy it.

Reviewed by Benjamin P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst dot org.

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Sonic Underground: Volume 2 [3 Discs] [DVD]

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Fans of Sonic the Hedgehog will love this!

on April 17, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

This series is entertaining. It has its fair share of problems and it is a little cheesy at times, but since I am a Sonic the Hedgehog fan, I may have high standards.

The plot is about Sonic (Jaleel White) and his siblings, Sonia (Jaleel White) and Manic (Jaleel White) who team up, to search for their missing mother, Queen Aleena and to stop the evil Dr. Robotnik. I wouldn’t say the animation is amazing, as it is a bit choppy and sluggish at times. However, it isn’t the worst animated show to come out in the 90s, as it does have a style and it does feel like it belongs in the Sonic The Hedgehog universe. Also, I find it interesting that Sonic, Sonia and Manic’s weapons are magic musical instruments. I really like that decision, as it shows that the series is a more creative and original adaptation.

Speaking of which, the main difference between this show and the games are the two completely original characters who are Sonic’s siblings, Sonia and Manic. I found them interesting, but it feels as if they often get pushed aside to let Sonic be the star. I understand he’s the main character, but Sonia and Manic don’t really get much of a chance to show their personalities. Most of the time, it seems that they are just there to be there. Also, Sonia’s voice is kind of irritating. It’s super high pitched and nasal, and is somewhat distracting.

This show is an adaptation of the Sonic The Hedgehog series. As an adaptation, it’s pretty good. However, it bares more resemblance to the Sonic comic books than the games. It has a similar setting to the comics and some of the characters seem similar. Sonic even looks like the comic adaptation of him, shorter and chubbier.

Sonic The Hedgehog has never really been known for fantastic, well written stories. Sometimes, the games have an engaging story, but writing has never been the focus of the series. So how is the story in Sonic Underground? Actually, not too shabby. The show has a set goal and some actual character development. However, there is only one season, with only forty episodes and that is probably a good thing. If it went on for multiple seasons, the show would probably turn into a wild goose chase looking for Queen Aleena.

I give this show 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 6 to 13, since this is definitely geared towards younger kids. Also, if you don’t like Sonic The Hedgehog, cheesy moments or 90s slang, this might not be for you.

Reviewed by Calista B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst fot org.

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Floogals: Destination Planet Earth [DVD]

Customer Rating

Makes Critical Thinking fun

on April 10, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

Demonstrating the power of exploration and critical thinking, Floogals is a children’s TV show with a mix of cartoon and real life images, exciting characters and unique episodes. Young children will enjoy the adventures the Floogals embark on.

This special Floogals DVD has eight episodes, stars Captain Fleeker, Officer Flo and Junior Boomer - aliens who have come to earth to explore the human’s objects. Episode #1, Project Caterpillar, explains the process of metamorphosis to the Floogals as they watch and wait for the Hooman’s caterpillars to change into butterflies. Episode #2 is Project Balloon, where the Floogals discover what a balloon is, how it works and why they are needed. The next Episode, #3 is Project Baby. The Floogals discover what a baby is exactly. Episode #4 is Project Bubbles. Along with discovering what a bubble is made of, the Floogals learn to work together to blow bubbles. In Project Hamster, the Floogals have to catch the Hooman’s hamster that escapes the cage. In Project Robot, they take Hooman’s son’s robot to rescue officer Flo. The episode Project Garden Hose has them finding out that the hose is turned on by a lever and learning that hoses are used to water plants. The final episode is Project Magnet where the Floogals’ learn what a magnet is and how it works. In each episode, kids learn the use of objects in our world.

My favorite character is Junior Boomer. Boomer’s adolescent character and curiosity is fun to watch throughout every episode. Of course, the other characters are exciting to watch too. Officer Flo’s intelligence and Captain Fleeker’s leadership qualities greatly enhance the show. In addition, I enjoyed the live elements incorporated into the show. In Project Hamster, I like how a real hamster is in the show along with the animated Captain Fleeker, who are both in the hamster’s cage.

Each episode teaches something different. Project Caterpillar teaches the audience about Metamorphosis. Project Balloon shows how balloons float. Project Baby demonstrates how we grow. Project Bubbles shows us what bubbles are made of. Project Hamster teaches about live animals and how to keep them in a cage. Project Robot shows how electronics work and how they run on batteries. Project Garden Hose demonstrates how a hose is used and how it works. Finally Project Magnet shows us how magnets work. As each episode teaches kids how ordinary objects in our world work, the Floogals’ comedic characters and unique adventures make the show enjoyable. I recommend Floogals for ages 2 to 6 and give it 5 out of 5 stars.

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Mack & Moxy: Adventures in Helpeeland! [DVD]

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Helps children understand life's complications

on March 22, 2017

Posted by: kidsfirstmedia

This DVD has a beautiful way of explaining and expressing important ways of helping children understand some of life's complicated issues. Friendship, honesty, tolerance, patience, healthy eating habits, dancing, singing, playing together, solving conflicts and working together are not always easy for children to understand and the Mack & Moxy series really helps parents instill good values in their children and helps parents find ways to teach these qualities to their children in a playful, colorful yet firm way. A must for all parents! The topics discussed, the music, the lyrics, the funny and unusual characters, and the vibrant colors are all spot on and will all appeal to children. Each story has a great topic and the characters are lively, honest, funny, believable and colorful. Each segment concentrates on a powerful message to help young children understand. The songs emphasize the message and make a great addition at the end of each segment. Having the words written on the screen also helps parents relay the words. The material in each segment is very relevant and is very easy for children to follow. Subjects such as honesty, proper car seats for children of different ages, healthy eating, friendship, cooperation, team work, understanding children with Autism, respect and organized games at recess time, are all introduced. At the end of each segment a mention of where to find more information is listed. The vocabulary is age-appropriate and the subject matter is very relevant. The songs are so lively and sing-able.<p> The theme song throughout the DVD when the team is ready to go out on their mission, 'Here We Go, Na Na Na, Off to Healthyland' is great. I found myself singing to it too! The animation is fantastic. The colors are so bright and rich for each of the characters and each of the Great Healthys hatched is a different color! The songs are upbeat and uplifting! Having the words written on the screen helps adults learn the songs. The settings for each of the segments has lots of imagination built in and also has awesome colors. Each of the characters has their own unique costume and name. Shellfish Sheldon is a red lobster, Clicks the robot, Patches the tiger, Little Bird is Autistic as well as Trooper Charlie, who dances very well, and so many others. These segments are all very interesting and colorful and playful and educational as well. Some of the segments dealt with normalizing Autism and one explains about the devices that help Autistic children communicate with others. It stresses that 'even though we are all different, we are all the same'. The song, 'Each One of Us Is Different' helps us to understand more. The theme of this segment is that children with Autism can be a great friend, and our differences are Okay. Yes, I love this! Reviewed by Tina B., KIDS FIRST! Juror.

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