Inside: Review of the new DOG MAN movie from Universal. Press screening.
As a family who loves to spend quality time together enjoying movies, we were beyond thrilled to get early access to DOG MAN, the much-anticipated adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s beloved book series.
Our excitement was especially high because my 8-year-old son is a huge DOG MAN fan, having devoured every book in the series multiple times. From the moment the opening scene hit the screen, we knew we were in for a treat.
Faithful to the Source Material
One of our biggest questions going into the movie was whether it would do justice to the wacky, imaginative world that Dav Pilkey has created. DOG MAN books are known for their unique blend of silly humour, childlike comic-book-style drawings, and heartfelt themes of friendship and redemption.
I’m happy to report that the filmmakers have nailed it! The animation perfectly captures the sketchy, hand-drawn aesthetic of the books, making it feel as though the pages have come to life. The humour remains intact, with plenty of slapstick gags, witty wordplay, and inside jokes that fans of the books will instantly recognise.
The Story
For those unfamiliar with the series, DOG MAN follows the adventures of a half-dog, half-human police officer who fights crime while navigating the hilarious challenges of his unusual identity.
In the movie, DOG MAN faces off against his classic nemesis, Petey the Cat, a villain with a surprisingly deep backstory. But what truly makes the story is Petey’s evolving relationship with his son, Li’l Petey, a bright-eyed, good-hearted kitten who wants to see the best in everyone – including his mischievous father.
The film smartly balances high-energy action sequences with touching emotional moments. The dynamic between Petey and Li’l Petey adds a layer of depth that tugs at the heartstrings, making this more than just a kids’ movie.
It’s about second chances, the power of kindness, and the importance of family.
Voice Acting and Animation
The voice cast brings these beloved characters to life with enthusiasm and charm. DOG MAN himself doesn’t speak (true to the books), but his expressive movements and exaggerated reactions (by Peter Hastings) do all the talking.
Li’l Petey’s voice (Lucas Hopkins Calderon) is filled with warmth and humour, perfectly capturing his optimistic and playful personality.
Petey the Cat (Pete Davidson), on the other hand, is voiced with just the right balance of grumpiness and reluctant tenderness, making his character arc all the more compelling.
The animation deserves special mention. It maintains the spirit of the books while adding just enough polish to feel cinematic. The action sequences are fast-paced and visually engaging, packed with over-the-top chase scenes, hilarious battles, and plenty of creative antics.
Kids will love the dynamic energy, while parents will appreciate the attention to detail that makes the film enjoyable for all ages.
A Family Movie Worth Watching
Perhaps the greatest strength of DOG MAN is how it brings families together. It’s rare to find a movie that genuinely entertains both kids and adults without one side feeling like they’re just tolerating it for the other’s sake.
But this film manages to be engaging, funny, and meaningful for everyone. It celebrates creativity, kindness, and the importance of seeing the good in others—messages that are always worth sharing.
As soon as it finished, my son immediately asked when we could watch it again. If that’s not the mark of a great film, I don’t know what is.
Final Verdict
Whether you’re a longtime DOG MAN fan or a newcomer to the series, this movie is a must-watch. It stays true to the beloved books while expanding the world in a way that feels fresh and exciting. With hilarious antics, heartfelt moments, and top-tier animation, DOG MAN is a fun-filled ride that the whole family will enjoy.
Available to buy of rent from 10th March 2025.