Maya the Bee*

In an age where hatred, fear, and intolerance are rampant, the innocent perspective of a child is a beautiful thing. This innocence is key in Alexs Stadermann's charming animated feature, MAYA THE BEE – an adaptation of the popular German book and cartoon. The title character is a vibrant and quirky little bug, full of curiosity and a hunger for learning. The kind Queen Bee values her precociousness, but the evil Royal Advisor, Buzzlina, is not amused. She’s hatching a plan to uncrown The Queen. However, Maya is hip to her secret. When Buzzlina banishes her from the hive, the youngster is forced to discover the outside world alone. Along the way, she meets a diverse group of friends, who help her discover that being different is a gift. Can she and her pals save the Queen Bee and unite the meadow against Buzzlina? MAYA THE BEE is a wonderful film for all ages. It’s brimming with unfiltered love, overwhelming wonder, and roaring excitement – feelings kids can relate to, but adults desperately need to remember. – E.F.