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Our take
The Secret Life of Pets 2 is a brisk animated comedy about nervous Max, a tiny dog on a rescue mission, and a bunny playing superhero for a tiger cub. A cruel circus owner, snapping wolves, and a loud train finale provide the main scares. There is no graphic content or strong language. Most children around 8 and up should be fine; younger ones may want a parent close for the tense moments.
Uplifting themes
There is a warm thread about facing your fears, asking for help, and looking out for animals and friends who need it. The three little stories all land on courage and teamwork Max learns to manage his worries instead of letting them run him, and the other pets show loyalty and pluck when it counts. Kindness toward a frightened animal drives the main rescue
Story (may spoil tone)
Max the terrier must cope with some major life changes when his owner gets married and has a baby. When the family takes a trip to the countryside, nervous Max has numerous run-ins with canine-intolerant cows, hostile foxes and a scary turkey. Luckily for Max, he soon catches a break when he meets Rooster, a gruff farm dog who tries to cure the lovable pooch of his neuroses.
Details
Violence The action is cartoon slapstick with a few sharper edges, including a h…
The action is cartoon slapstick with a few sharper edges, including a harsh circus owner who cracks a whip, some snapping wolves, and a chase across a moving train. Nobody is seriously hurt and it all stays playful
Frightening A caged tiger cub and the nasty circus boss give the film its scariest…
A caged tiger cub and the nasty circus boss give the film its scariest stretch, and the wolves and the train climax get loud. The menace is mild and resolves quickly, but very young viewers may find those moments tense
Flashing lights We have not confirmed whether this version contains flashing lights.
We have not confirmed whether this version contains flashing lights.
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Talk after watching
- Max learns that being scared is normal and can be managed. How does your family deal with worries?
- The animals rescue a tiger from an unkind owner. What does it mean to treat animals well?
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The Secret Life of Pets 2
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