Wholesome, Witty, Tail-Wagging Family Fun

Rating: 8/10 (3 October 2016)

Cute laughs for the whole family; a hair on the light side, but given the broad audience that's understandable. Warm fuzzies abound, and not just in the physical sense. Beyond the sight gags and puns, both calling cards of Illumination Entertainment (the studio behind Despicable Me), it offers a big heart and a fresh spin on a rather familiar saga. Like an urban, modern, madcap Incredible Journey from several perspectives, it's a winding road with many unexpected bumps. It's also well-stocked with voice talent - Louis CK, Kevin Hart, Albert Brooks, Hannibal Buress - and does a fine job of letting the bigger personalities do their thing, taking over a scene when they need to. Lots of fun when it lingers on the quirks and perks that any dog or cat owner should know by heart, and also surprisingly sweet when it comes time to wrap everything up and move on to the credits. A firm, solid entry.