“Once you’re family, you’re always family. And that never changes.” – Henry. Is Think Like a Dog just another talking dog movie, or does it hold its own? Is it a family friendly film for kids of all ages? I’m breaking down all of the thematic elements in my Think Like a Dog Parent Movie Review to help YOU decide if it’s safe for kids. As always, no spoilers!
Think Like a Dog Parent Movie Review
Raise your hand if you can never resist a cute dog movie? Gabriel Bateman, Megan Fox, and Josh Duhamel star in Think Like a dog, and while you might be thinking “not ANOTHER talking dog movie,” let’s give this one a shot. For starters, a stellar cast. Not to mention Josh Duhamel is incredibly easy on the eyes.
Aside from that, there is a cute story. I loved watching the relationship between Oliver and his dog, Henry. Haven’t all dog lovers dreamed of actually being able to communicate with their dog?!
Oliver is a super smart kid, who creates a device that allows him to hear what his dog is thinking. Henry does not actually “talk,” and Oliver is the only person who can hear his thoughts. So this puts a different spin on the “talking dog” movie.
What I loved most about Think Like a Dog, was the loyalty and unconditional love Henry showed Oliver. That’s his boy. His person. His best friend. Watching their relationship will give you all the feels.
Is Think Like a Dog Kid-Friendly?
Just because there’s a dog in the movie, doesn’t necessarily make it kid-friendly. However, I’m going to say that yes, for the most part, Think Like a Dog is kid-friendly. It is rated PG for rude and suggestive material. It has a run time of 91 minutes, which is really the perfect amount time for kids. However, there are a few things parents might want to watch for.
Violence: I really thought Think Like a Dog wasn’t going to have ANY violence, but things changed a bit towards the end when Oliver gets kidnapped. The scene really took me by surprise, because it was very forceful and showed violence towards a child. My 6-year old is going through a phase where he’s afraid of strangers taking him away. I’m lucky that this movie didn’t hold his interest at all, otherwise I could absolutely see him having a hard time with it.
Language: While there is no profanity in Think Like a Dog, there are a few choice words that are worth mentioning. Shut-up, stupid, and fart-face, are all used. There are TONS of butt jokes, and Ellen, Oliver’s Mom even said, “Junk in the trunk,” and “Ba donk a donk,” while his dad, Lukas, smacks his butt. Oliver’s friend tells him he “needs to grow a pair.” There’s also a lot of talk about poop and loads of fart jokes, which most kids will find hilarious.
Adult Themes: Oliver’s parents are talking about separating and getting a divorce. I can absolutely see some children being sensitive to this theme. The villain of the film is also extremely condescending with how he talks to and treats others.
Age Recommendation: Think Like a Dog is not meant for little kids. My 6 year old had absolutely no interest, even when I tried to point out the fart jokes he usually goes wild for. However, my 10 year old enjoyed it quite a bit! He did tell me it was full of emotion, and the kidnapping scene did surprise him. I’m going to recommend this movie for ages 8 and up. Just be prepared for some potential questions from your kids.
Key Messages in Think Like a Dog
While yes, a good portion of this movie is about Oliver being able to hear his dog Henry’s thoughts, the theme of family is very important. It’s about thinking what family means, and remembering old memories that brought you to where you are today. Henry really brings the wisdom when he says to Oliver, “We were happy because we had everything we need. Each other.” BOOM. Hold your family close, and never lose sight of where you came from.
Overall Thoughts on Think Like a Dog
Think Like a Dog is a predictable, yet endearing family film that reminds us, “the simple life is the happy life.” It celebrates the friendship between a boy and his dog. It deals with family situations that are relatable. While there isn’t a ton of substance in this movie, it is still worth the watch. Think Like a Dog premieres on @AppleTV and everywhere you buy movies June 9!
About Think Like a Dog
Josh Duhamel and Megan Fox star in this whimsical family comedy about a boy and his dog, and a science project that will change all of their lives forever. Think Like a Dog follows 12-year-old Oliver, a tech prodigy whose middle-school science fair experiment goes awry, creating a telepathic connection between him and his furry friend, Henry. The bond brings Oliver and Henry even closer as they join forces to comically overcome complications at school, and help Oliver’s parents rekindle their marriage along the way.
I hope you enjoyed my Think Like a Dog parent movie review. Will you be seeing this film with your family?
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Looks like a great family movie. Thanks for the great review. Can’t wait to see it.