Common Sense Media Review
By Grace Montgomery
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Awful Chinese animal caper has some violence, scary scenes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Lucky Dog
What's the Story?
Orphaned puppy Loh Loh is adopted by the wealthy Ms. Guagua, who wants to find a dog who will win at a prestigious dog show. After the two become fast friends, Loh Loh is kidnapped, sending his two dog trainers and Ms. Guagua on an adventure to get him back. Meanwhile, the scheming Pah Song tries to also find Loh Loh in an attempt to win Ms. Guagua's heart, while the wannabe thieves Poh Sister and her brother hunt for the dog to win the reward money.
Is It Any Good?
LUCKY DOG seems to hit all the wrong notes. None of the characters is very likable, and although some of them are sometimes funny (Poh Sister and her brother are so over-the-top ridiculous that they do get a few laughs), the awkward overdubbing makes it hard to enjoy most of the dialogue. Small children may find it difficult to determine who the good guys really are in this movie, as most of the characters either engage in illegal activity (the somewhat likable Poh Sister and her brother are thieves, and Poh Song is a criminal) or are mostly after making money.
Parents and young children alike also may be disturbed by the way animals are put in peril. Although the film has a happy ending, the story leaves you with a bad taste in your mouth. With so many good animal adventures out there, this is definitely one you can skip.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about kids' movies from China. Are they different from American kids' movies? How are they different?
Do you think you can still be a good person if you do things that are illegal, such as stealing? Why, or why not?
What's your favorite talking-animal movie? Why is it your favorite?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : June 24, 2014
- Cast : Charlene Choi , Zong He , Chapman To
- Director : Huayang Fu
- Studio : Phase 4 Films
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Run time : 96 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : March 13, 2020
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