PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie Review: A Diverting but Regressive Kidpic
The PAW Patrol franchise, a beloved series of animated adventures featuring a team of anthropomorphic puppies, has ventured into uncharted territory with its latest installment, "PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie." This film, however, is not without its flaws, and it raises some important questions about the franchise's direction and its impact on young audiences.
A Familiar Premise, A New Adventure
The story begins with the PAW Patrol, a group of highly trained puppies, embarking on a sea patrol with their handler, Ryder. The puppies, including the seemingly interchangeable Chase and Rocky, are tasked with firefighting on a yacht. But a storm sends them off course, leading them to an island inhabited by dinosaurs. Here, they encounter Rex, a paraplegic dog who has formed a unique bond with the dinosaurs and built an elaborate treehouse.
The film's animation and production design are impressive, with vivid details in the instigating seastorm and the island's diverse vegetation. However, the characters' uncanny-valley feel and grating vocal delivery detract from the overall experience. The puppies' big eyes and stylized designs, reminiscent of Margaret Keane's work, create a sense of unease. The vocal performances, with clipped T's and a 1950s-inspired delivery, further add to the film's dated feel.
A Missed Opportunity in Politics
The film's treatment of its characters and their actions raises concerns about its political messaging. The puppies, despite their noble intentions, alert the authorities, leading to the introduction of modernity and destruction. While Mayor Humdinger's greed is depicted as the primary cause of the environmental disaster, the dogs' actions are not scrutinized morally. This inconsistency in the narrative undermines the film's environmental and altruistic themes.
The tension between nature and modernity is a missed opportunity. Rex's treehouse, a symbol of pre-industrial achievements, is eventually supplied with modern gadgets, contradicting the film's initial portrayal of his self-sufficient lifestyle. The dogs' cars and planes, while cool, contribute to the film's simplistic and macho worldview, which is at odds with its environmentalism.
A Half-Decent Entertainment, Despite Its Flaws
Despite its shortcomings, "PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie" manages to deliver some entertaining moments. The action sequences, set against a backdrop of volcanic activity, create a sense of jeopardy and suspense. Marshall, the firefighting Dalmatian, undergoes a notable character development as he rises to the challenge of saving the day.
The film's target audience, young viewers, may not notice the lack of adult humor. However, for parents, the film's regressive themes and inconsistent messaging are a cause for concern. The inclusion of a new song by Ed Sheeran for the Backstreet Boys, performed by late-forties and fifties-era singers, serves as a reminder that the franchise's audience will eventually grow up.
In conclusion, "PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie" is a diverting adventure, but it falls short in its treatment of political themes and its impact on young audiences. The film's technical prowess and entertaining moments cannot compensate for its regressive and inconsistent narrative, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment and a longing for a more thoughtful and mature approach to storytelling.
