I Want to Be Neenja! The Movie

A young, aspiring ninja named Kiko dreams of joining the legendary Neenja clan, despite her clumsy nature and fear of heights. When a shadowy organization threatens to steal the ancient Scroll of Shadows, Kiko must overcome her limitations and team up with a quirky group of unlikely allies to save their village. Along the way, she discovers that true strength comes not just from martial arts, but from courage and friendship.

I Want to Be Neenja! The Movie was met with a mixed to positive reception, particularly praised for its vibrant animation and comedic timing, though some critics found the plot predictable. Audiences enjoyed the film's lighthearted tone and its positive messages about perseverance.

• Visually dazzling animation and laugh-out-loud humor make this a fun ride for families.

• While the story treads familiar ground, the characters' journey is engaging.

• A charming adventure that emphasizes bravery and teamwork over pure skill.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly praised the film's vibrant animation, fast-paced action sequences, and Kiko's relatable journey. Many appreciated the film's positive messages for children and found the humor to be consistently funny for all ages. A few reviewers noted that the plot was somewhat formulaic but did not detract from their overall enjoyment.

Nominated for Best Animated Feature at the Golden Trailer Awards.

The voice actor for Kiko, Mimi Smith, was cast after director Sammy Lee saw her perform improv comedy in a small Los Angeles theater.