Reel Monsters stood out to me because I had an immediate connection with the main character. We both want to make movies. If you're a teen like me, and you have a love for acting, writing and movies, then you will also relate with the characters.
The story's lead characters are Cory (Dawson Hilfinger), Boone (Nicholas Olson) and Sandra (Sophia Guss). The title Reel Monsters is a funny play on words because the movie is about teens taking a directing class and directors make film "reels," and the teens end up filming a "real" monster, Big Foot. The main action starts after Cory shows a film his dad made before his mysterious disappearance. The teens decide to find Cory's dad and, in doing so, they go on a journey that both brings them closer together and changes their lives.
The story is one that has been told before (finding Big Foot in the woods), but this one is different because it is from the perspective of teens. This helps keep the attention of younger audiences. All the kids want to be directors, so it's not like other movies where only one person has a skill or dream. So it is a nice plot twist to have all the main characters share so much in common. Also, the film manages to be suspenseful and funny. For example, the creative ways Cory, Boone and Sophia deal with the two bullies. Also, the actors are believable as teens dealing with regular teen problems like bullies and major family issues-like the missing dad.
The message of the film is that if you have a goal then stick to it and be prepared for any opportunity. Another message is that it is okay to be nervous and afraid, and to get others to help you accomplish your goal.
I give Reel Monsters 4 out of 5 stars and I recommend it to ages 11 to 18, plus adults who will enjoy it, too. Reel Monsters releases digitally February 15, 2022.
By Ayden P., KIDS FIRST!
