At first I was going to say this is a harmless film for kids. Still, it was rated TV-PG-V when I saw it. I thought this was overly cautious because I've seen far worse with the same rating and a different font (TV PG with one font seems to be less family-friendly than TV-PG with a different font). I was also going to say it is a family movie which is not offensive other than possibly making anyone over the age of twelve feel dumber after seeing it. But no, the last few minutes can be compared favorably with the classic "Home Alone". And Owen's scientific abilities exceed those of Macauley Culkin's character. Plus we have an amazing thrill ride and a touching conclusion.
Owen tries to help the dog but it is clear our heroes don't want him to, and the results are comically painful. Also, hiding the dog from Lilly creates some opportunities for comedy.
When the cops don't believe Owen, that's fine, because the movie would have been over way too soon. A lot of wacky adventures are still to come, and the wackiest are coming toward the end. With lots more gadgets and plenty of physical comedy. And it is revealed whether there is a Mad Man of the Mountain.
The squirrels are quite realistic but still look animated. Same for the hornets, Stinky the Skunk, and Bill Murray's nemesis from "Caddyshack".
Did I mention how stupid the villains are?)
I don't think anyone will be watching this movie for the acting, though the girl playing Lilly stands out, and of course French Stewart does what he does best, which is playing incompetent morons. And he's the smartest of the three. Anyone who likes watching moronic bad guys get what they deserve should be happy. And there are several really funny gags like one involving a hot waitress in shorts. On the other hand, Owen's mom is entirely too perky. But we don't see much of her. Garrett Morris of "2 Broke Girls" doesn't really impress here.
It's like I said. This is a kids' adventure. Very funny and lots of fun, and not really harmful.
Owen tries to help the dog but it is clear our heroes don't want him to, and the results are comically painful. Also, hiding the dog from Lilly creates some opportunities for comedy.
When the cops don't believe Owen, that's fine, because the movie would have been over way too soon. A lot of wacky adventures are still to come, and the wackiest are coming toward the end. With lots more gadgets and plenty of physical comedy. And it is revealed whether there is a Mad Man of the Mountain.
The squirrels are quite realistic but still look animated. Same for the hornets, Stinky the Skunk, and Bill Murray's nemesis from "Caddyshack".
Did I mention how stupid the villains are?)
I don't think anyone will be watching this movie for the acting, though the girl playing Lilly stands out, and of course French Stewart does what he does best, which is playing incompetent morons. And he's the smartest of the three. Anyone who likes watching moronic bad guys get what they deserve should be happy. And there are several really funny gags like one involving a hot waitress in shorts. On the other hand, Owen's mom is entirely too perky. But we don't see much of her. Garrett Morris of "2 Broke Girls" doesn't really impress here.
It's like I said. This is a kids' adventure. Very funny and lots of fun, and not really harmful.