Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie is absolutely adorable. While all the pups make an appearance, this is Skye’s story, and what an emotional one it is.
Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie is the second theatrically released film to feature everyone’s favorite rescue pups. The first was a big hit with young fans of the series, and this one is sure to be as well. This time around, the pups get super powers after a meteor crashes into Adventure City. Each power perfectly coincides with their rescue ability, because of course. While they are all a part of this movie, it really is Skye’s story, and an emotional one at that.
Note: This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie would not exist without the labor of the writers and actors in both unions.
Even though it is very much geared towards a younger audience, and those that are fans of the Paw Patrol series, there are some silly and fun moments that parents will enjoy — and even laugh at. There is one point in the film where it apologizes to parents that the new look for the pups means new merchandise, and every parent will completely understand.
That said, there are plenty of things that fans of the series will recognize. Easter eggs, references, characters. Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie very much feels like a standalone special, that still heavily relates to the series — which is a good thing.
Paw Patrol: The Movie told Chase’s story, this time around Skye is the main character. The overall story follows the pups taking on a mad scientist super villain who wants their power crystals for herself, but the heart of it tells Skye’s backstory.
We learn how she came to join the Paw Patrol, and why she has been so down on herself lately. She is the tiniest pup, and was the runt of her litter, and needs to gain confidence in herself. This is something that many can relate to, and thankfully it will help to teach children that they can do anything, no matter how small they are. As Rider always says, “No pup is too small!”
Speaking of it being an emotional backstory, there were quite a few kids tearing up and crying in our screening, so keep that in mind.
While the overall plot is quite generic, with a lot of convenient moments to drive things forward, the messaging that shines through is what is important. Every kid needs to learn to believe in themselves. Of course, everything plays out exactly as expected. Once again, the humor and story are there for fans of the series, which means a younger audience. Still, there is enough here to keep older siblings and parents entertained.
When it comes to the villain, she is great. Just the right mix of silly and manacle, with a touch of relatability. The animation style is beautiful, especially the pups’ fur, which often ends up ruffled or wet.
It is fun to see the Paw Patrol with their new powers and new looks. This could lead into a new series, and likely will. Something that kids will be thrilled about.
Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie hits theaters on September 29th, and debuts with a cute short featuring Dora the Explorer and Boots.
NEXT: Paw Patrol: The Movie Review
About Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie
When a magical meteor crash lands in Adventure City, it gives the PAW Patrol pups superpowers, transforming them into The MIGHTY PUPS! For Skye, the smallest member of the team, her new powers are a dream come true.
But things take a turn for the worse when the pups’ archrival Humdinger breaks out of jail and teams up with a mad scientist to steal the superpowers for the two villains. With the fate of Adventure City hanging in the balance, the Mighty Pups have to stop the supervillains before it’s too late, and Skye will need to learn that even the smallest pup can make the biggest difference.
Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie comes to theaters on September 29th.
Tessa Smith is a Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer-approved Film and TV Critic. She is also a Freelance Writer. Tessa has been in the Entertainment writing business for ten years and is a member of several Critics Associations including the Critics Choice Association and the Greater Western New York Film Critics Association.