PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Parent Guide

The people of Adventure City are safe thanks to the efforts of the PAW Patrol, a group of puppies who use their skills to solve problems and respond to emergencies. But when a scientist named Victoria Vance (Taraji P. Henson) uses a powerful magnet to draw a mysterious meteor to Earth, the pups get a little more than they bargained for - the meteor’s crystals grant them superpowers. They’ll need these powers to prevent Victoria and Mayor Humdinger (Ron Pardo) from using the crystals to become super villains.

If you’ve ever watched any episodes of the TV series PAW Patrol, I think you have a good idea of what to expect for this feature length adventure, and I can guarantee that you are right. This production has exactly the type of story, writing, level of adventure, and production value I predicted walking into it. There are no surprises, either good or bad. Just the consistent product that the producers of PAW Patrol have been churning out for a decade.

Was I bored out of my mind in the theater? Yes. Did I contemplate who I am as a person when I lightly giggled at an animated dog making a bland joke about dog treats? Also yes. But I am an adult, and this movie was not made for me. My six-year-old, on the other hand, had a great time. He was laughing and cheering along with all the other young children in our screening. He’s starting to get a little past the age for this franchise, so he did say he was bored at one point, but the younger kids in the theater seemed to be having the best day of their lives. There were a few big cheer moments from the youngsters, as well as some big laughs.

Parents will be delighted to know that there are next to no content concerns, aside from a little bit of superhero fighting and mild peril, which stays well within the levels set by the TV show. Young audiences are sure to love this full-length adventure with their favorite pups, some cool new gadgets, and simple messages about self-worth, teamwork, and resilience. Adults are sure to tolerate it without wanting to rip their eyes out, which is more than I can say for most media aimed at this age group.