All Dogs Go to Heaven 2
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that the plot includes references to Hell and the Devil, who is portrayed in the character Red. This may frighten the youngest children. Christian families may object to the characterization of death and the afterlife. The plot has tense moments and some frightening themes, but carries with it an uplifting message of working together and warns against selfishness. While the film is aimed at children 5 to 7, some older children (12 and up) may also enjoy the film for its animation.
What's the Story?
Charlie is bored in dog Heaven and wants to return to Earth. So when his old nemesis Carface escapes with Gabriel's horn, which has the power to open all locks and doors, Charlie and pal Itchy are sent to retrieve it. Charlie soon wants to enjoy his old hangouts, but he is only a ghost. So he accepts from Carface's friend Red the loan of a magical collar that makes him physical. But Red is really the Devil and wants to use the horn for his own evil ends. Charlie learns the error of his selfish ways when he befriends David, a young runaway boy. Charlie and his friends must muster the courage to foil Red's plan to imprison all heavenly dogs in his fiery domain.
Is It Any Good?
All Dogs Go to Heaven's everydog, Charlie B. Barkin, is back in a sequel that's even more off-kilter than the popular original. In this bizarre coming-of-age story, Charlie leaves dog Heaven, confronts the Devil, and learns to be less selfish. ALL DOGS GO TO HEAVEN 2 is a fast-moving tale that will compel most viewers simply because it is so unusual. The characters have flaws that give them room to grow in the film.
The film may remind parents of former Disney animator Don Bluth, who animated the 1989 original. The film retains much of what made its predecessor a success. The songs are unfortunately lackluster, but the voice actors (including Charlie Sheen, Dom DeLuise, George Hearn and Ernest Borgnine) bring their characters to life.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the difference between self-interest and working as a team. When is each appropriate? Also, young David tells his friends that he ran away from home because, with his stepmother pregnant, he feels unwanted. How could his friends and family help him feel wanted?
Movie Details
- In theaters: March 29, 1996
- On DVD or streaming: March 6, 2001
- Cast: Bebe Neuwirth, Charlie Sheen, Dom DeLuise
- Director: Paul Sabella
- Studio: MGM/UA
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Music and Sing-Along
- Run time: 82 minutes
- MPAA rating: G
- Last updated: November 28, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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All Dogs Go to Heaven
Intense animated adventure has peril, drinking, smoking.
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Balto
Brave dog saves kids in fun but tense fact-based film.
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Bolt
Super-dog adventure is fun, age-appropriate for kids.
For kids who love animal movies
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