Movie Review: ‘Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie’ brings just a little bit more

In the words of Rubble, it’s Paw Patrol … but more! With just a little bit extra, this is the second big screen release of Paw Patrol, and “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie” preserves the franchise’s signature enthusiastic kid-centered storyline.

By Jessica Vollero

Fans of the high soaring pink puppy Skye will be pleased, as this movie focuses on her emotional backstory and personal growth. Bring those tissues because her backstory will yank on the heartstrings of the whole family. While favorite characters like Chase and Marshall take the limelight, audiences will love the introduction of the three lovable pomeranians known as the Junior Patrollers.

The film has enjoyable celebrity cameos, such as the Paw Patrol enthusiast Kristin Bell. Audiences are also bound to recognize Taraji P. Henson as the voice behind the new mad scientist villain Victoria “Vee” Vance. Vee provides a visual amusement with her bright green hair and trendy purple glasses. But don’t worry, she is plotting with every Paw Patrol fan’s beloved villain, Mayor Humdinger, who makes his big-time return to Adventure City. 

As hinted at in the trailers, the pups gain superpowers that escalate them to The Mighty Pups through an evil plot gone wrong. Parents prepare yourself. This film will certainly yield some fun and addictive merchandise. Not only do the pups get super suits, their vehicles and gadgets are upgraded to match. Of course, this evolution doesn’t go without some flukes, as Pup Liberty has to learn the secret to her powers along the way.  

Overall, “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie” plays it safe with a fun, predictable plot keeping true to the Paw Patrol vibe. It is filled to the brim with lovable lighthearted humor, emotional themes of friendship and self-discovery, and teamwork. It’s a good fit for younger kiddos who might scare away from loud sounds and menacing cartoon villains. At an hour and 35 minutes, it was a little hard for my 2-year-old to keep focused, my 6-year-old had a lot of laugh-out-loud moments, and the upbeat soundtrack and some fun chase sequences strapped us in to till the end.