Ella und der schwarze Jaguar

Autumn and the Black Jaguar is a passionate tale of friendship that surpasses human boundaries. Told through a combination of flashbacks and present-day scenes, it shows how one girl, on a quest to save a jaguar, changes the mindset of an entire community.

The film follows Autumn (Lumi Pollack), a teen girl who loves animals but has none of her own. Autumn lives in New York City with her single father (Paul Greene), who moved them out of their former home in the forest after the murder of Autumn's mother (Eva Avila) by animal poachers. When Autumn learns that Hope, the jaguar who was her childhood best friend, is in danger, she makes the journey to the Amazon rainforest to save her, trailed by her agoraphobic biology teacher (Emily Bett Rickards) and her hedgehog.

One of the most impressive aspects of Autumn and the Black Jaguar is the character development of multiple people. Almost every character undergoes some kind of transformation. Autumn learns to ask for help when she needs it, and that, while she should trust her instincts, being careful is just as important as activism. Autumn's father learns to let people in instead of pushing them away. Her teacher opens up and is forced to reenter the world and make friends. Even Autumn's uncle Oré (Wayne Charles Baker) learns to take a stand when something is wrong, rather than sitting still. The cinematography is also worth mentioning - Autumn and the Black Jaguar takes place in a rainforest and we see many breathtakingly beautiful shots of the Amazon jungle and its wildlife, rivers and waterfalls. Finally, the chemistry between Lumi Pollack and the real jaguar used for the film blows my mind. Before filming for Autumn and the Black Jaguar began, Pollack spent one year bonding with the jaguar, which is very apparent when they are on-screen together. Their interactions are very natural, and Pollack displays no fear or tension around the jaguar (which is really saying something, considering its size!). I was greatly moved by this touching story of one girl's unwavering bond with an animal and how she uses it to make a change.

Autumn's inspiring journey is a reminder to stand up for those who would do the same for you in your time of need - animals as well as people. Be there for those who have been there for you, because one day you could be depending on them to save you. Autumn and the Black Jaguar also highlights the importance of perseverance. Determination can be the difference between failing and making an impact, even when it seems like the cards are stacked against you.

I give Autumn and the Black Jaguar 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The film releases to theaters nationwide on January 17, 2025. By Ruhi K., KIDS FIRST!

Of course the movie is an entire fantasy, but what's the problem of that?

When a fantasy shows us something interesting and give us some good time, it doesn't matter.

The city where the girl goes doesn't exist, but the name seems a clear reference to a real place, Mamirauá.

However, different than in the movie, Mamirauá is a safe study reserve. They receive tourists as well, in a very controlled way, I recommend.

The movie illustrate the dangers in criminal activities in Amazon, but as a family movie, it had to be a fantasy and end in a beautiful way, while the reality is much more harsh.

I don't think the movie was actually shot in Amazon. The water doesn't match, the travel itinerary doesn't match. However, just for making me remember the time I spent there, it deserves an 8.

I noticed some bad reviews around and I can only think they are created by people who lost the capability to enjoy some fantasy in their lifes.

This movie is a sweet family movie, that will appeal to the younger girls. There's not that much going on for the parents. The plot is predictable and the moral of the story is kind of force fed to you, but I have to be honest: it was quite fun to watch with our 6 year old daughter.

The movie has almost all the pitfalls of a family movie: overacting adults, too wise kid role, thin plot, deadly situations that are easily survived, and so on. But the main character is well played. The goofy teacher role is not believable (what is she doing there in the jungle?), but it is still filled in quite well. And if you like some jungle shots with waterfalls, you won't be disappointed.

This movie is one of the weakest, most poorly scripted movie I have ever seen. Do. Not. Waste. Time. On this. Movie. Unrealistic, plagued by plot holes, this is hard to believe anyone would invest money, efforts, time and energy pursuing such weak story and script. I have seen my share of poor movies but tike is one of the worst. It is really hard to believe this le story from the get-go and to continue invest in the story. How can people write, find the funds and spend all the energy to write, produce and promote this poorly written, acted and delivered movie. This is a real waste of time and do not spent time, energy on this.

I can't believe the reviews that are over overanalyzing this movie. Its clearly supposed to be a cute movie that has a strong message that matters. People don't like being shown to care, because they lead very grumpy and selfish lives. This did have a disney feel to it, but why is that so bad? It's perfect for the family and having Emily Bett Rickards was the perfect adult comic relief. She was hilarious and the best part about this movie for me. This one is cute and although it was unrealistic and a bit odd, it had a cute message overall. That's what you should have focused on, and just enjoyed the beautiful landscapes and hilarious moments.

Watched at AMC on 1-20-2025.