by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Do you have kids? Do they love PAW Patrol? If the answer to the first question is yes… then the answer to the other is also probably yes. This show is a beloved fixture of modern children’s media experiences. Kids love puppies! The PAW Patrol puppies protect people and represent all types of emergency services personnel, from police to firefighters to pilots. But the big screen sequel, PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie, has a new surprise for our canine pals: They all have superpowers! You would think this is a crazy leap, but it’s not for a bunch of talking pooches who are here to protect the citizenry.
So does this lower budgeted Canadian animated series make a big splash with its second theatrical outing? It is full of all kinds of fun action for the whole family. The inclusion of the superpowers makes for some fun antics, especially with the flying elements, including a zany, fun city chase with a giant Mayor Humdinger (voiced by Ron Pardo), giving chase to an interesting musical choice for a kid’s movie. The action is never too intense where kids would be scared of it, but it does offer up enough that even the adults can enjoy.
Does the script for this kid’s film provide anything special? There are some surprisingly well-done elements centered around Skye who is pushed to the forefront of this narrative. McKenna Grace voices this aviator pooch who is trying her best to prove herself as more than the runt of the patrol’s litter. She goes on a parallel journey with the film’s main antagonist, Vee (Taraji P. Henson). This meteor expert turns into a mad scientist when magic shards can give her powers as well. They both feel unheard and not taken seriously, and that works well to sell this film together.
But does this film offer more than just a good time for kids? Most of the jokes certainly fall into the category of “just for kids.” The humor is certainly there for the children, and mostly just them. BUT… there are a few moments that got a good chuckle out of me (and the dad sitting right next to me in the theater). There is a clear set of themes that are there to help kids stop bullying and to make all different kids feel welcome, no matter how small and defenseless they are. That feels like the real key to the film. These themes should be obvious for anyone who watches the film, but you never can know for sure. There is plenty of silly physical comedy, especially with the addition of these new superpowers for the heroic pooches.
Does the voice cast add some layers to the experience? Grace gives an endearing and empathetic lead voice performance that brings the character of Skye to life, and does it in such a genuine way. Henson is having a blast hamming up the show. But there are some surprising turns from James Marsden and Kristen Bell, even though they are in some small roles. The actual cast members who jump from the show to the film give earnest turns as the characters that they made famous.
Does PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie deliver the sequel that fans were hoping for? Those kids in the audience will certainly not be disappointed. There are not that many kids who worry about past the basics. And the adults in the room will at least acknowledge the fun that their kids are having. Head to the theater for a solid good film that the whole family can enjoy together, no matter the quality.
Rating: It Was Okay
PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie is currently playing in theaters
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