Reviews in a nutshell
It is quite surprising that the big animation studios have not picked up on and adapted Australian author Aaron Blabey’s series of children’s illustrated books The Bad Guys long before now, because it centres on a gang of anthropomorphic animals known as the Bad Guys who try to do good deeds to change society’s perception …
Solid family entertainment that may feel lacking in wider, original narrative, but borrows or mimics the elements that made the previous kids classics like Despicable Me and The Secret Life of Pets so highly successful.
Show Dogs does exactly what it says on the tin; feeds fans of such family entertainment but with little meaty substance. As much as you want to feel satisfied in laughs, the effect is as short-lived and superficial as some of the talent contest paraphernalia.
If there is a third outing, it does need a good screenwriting hand. These characters became little treasures out of nowhere before seven years ago, and there is still a feeling they should be preserved for future audiences to enjoy.
Older fans of Peter Rabbit stories from their childhood may find this modern-day, ramped-up version from writer-director Will Gluck a little ‘chaotic’ to bear.
Good-value family entertainment, with all kinds of characters in the mix. Do catch this if you can!
It’s not so much the McQueen character progression here, but whether you want action scenes verses lovable character moments for committed fans. Indeed, those craving more Mater moments will be disappointed.
The real fun comes from Bratt and his 80s obsessions, which allows those of us who remember those days first time around to indulge in 80s fever.
Rock Dog has a lot of lessons for all viewers of all ages to learn from. Some of the humour is a little slapstick and déjà vu, but utterly harmless, nevertheless. It will make you walk away with a smile and a hum, so that’s not a bad thing.
