Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Mild peril in feel-good, funny faith-based mystery.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Dot Conner: Webtective
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Based on the same-named 2023 web series, DOT CONNER: WEBTECTIVE is a family-friendly mystery that follows teenage internet sleuth Dot Conner (Gili Gould). After getting a strange call from her missing father on the night before her first day of high school, Dot is led on a clue-filled chase across the city, along with her best friends Makayla (Lauryn McCardell) and Alex (Ethan Pogue). What starts as a search for her father leads to an even bigger mystery, with twists and turns, puzzles, and shady Russian villains in Dot's path. But even in the darkest moments, Dot discovers that courage and faith in God can help light the way.
Is It Any Good?
An old-school Disney Channel-esque vibe, fresh humor, and unexpected cameos keep this kid-friendly mystery light and entertaining without being too heavy-handed. Overall, Dot Conner: Webtective is a confident faith-based film with modern influences that seem intended to make biblical messaging appealing to younger viewers. Dot takes deep dives into the Bible, asking questions, raising doubts, and even feeling powerless at times—which is more relatable than taking a "talking at the audience" approach.
But, with its kid-focused themes, the story also isn't that deep. Don't expect any big plot twists or emotional range (Gould's performance is memorable, but most of the side characters are pretty one-note). And definitely don't believe that skipping school without significant consequences is the norm. But thanks to the use of online video elements, animated scenes and overlays, scavenger hunt puzzles, and a sprinkle of surprising humor (hello, Princess Diaries fans!), Dot Conner: Webtective is ultimately a feel-good, entertaining, kid-friendly way to introduce faith-based films to younger kids and tweens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Dot Conner: Webtective's messages. How would you explain them? Do you have to be a person of faith to appreciate them?
Dot admits that, at times, she's had questions and doubts about the Bible and God. How does she handle her struggles with her faith? Does that make her more relatable?
Do you think that this film depicts faith in a realistic way? Why, or why not? How does it compare to other faith-based films that you've seen?
How do the characters demonstrate curiosity, courage, and perseverance? Why are those important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : September 19, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : February 2, 2026
- Cast : Gili Gould , Ethan Pogue , Lauryn McCardell
- Director : Andrew Huff
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Huff Media Productions
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Faith ( Christianity ) , Family Stories , Friendship , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Curiosity , Perseverance
- Run time : 85 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : some action/violence and thematic elements
- Last updated : October 21, 2025
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