Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Flat-feeling animated animal adventure has cartoon violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
StarDog and TurboCat
What's the Story?
In STARDOG AND TURBOCAT, dog Buddy (voiced by Nick Frost) is launched into space during a 1966 shuttle test. When his shuttle crashes back to Earth 50 years later, he discovers a world in which people have turned against animals. He soon meets Felix/TurboCat (voiced by Luke Evans), an arrogant outlaw superhero modeled on Batman. Buddy learns that he, too, has superpowers. But in contrast to TurboCat, Buddy still believes humans are good and tries to find his former owner. Together, dog and cat eventually learn to work together as they navigate their way through a world that's become alien to Buddy.
Is It Any Good?
Besides Buddy, most of the characters here are irate and hostile, and they don't make for enjoyable company. The slapstick violence is delivered without the wit required to make it fun. In comparison with highly polished and well-plotted animated adventures from the likes of Disney and Pixar, StarDog and TurboCat feels flat and lifeless, with most scenes set against static backgrounds and empty streets. The production values make it feel more like a TV show (a la Paw Patrol) than a feature film.
The story also lacks development, with no explanation given for the reason that people and animals had their falling out. This lack of depth makes the plot twist feel unearned. The movie is a British production, but the British lead actors -- Gemma Arterton also stars -- perform with American accents, and Frost's effort in particular lacks conviction. StarDog and TurboCat isn't much more than a functional, basic mismatched-buddy movie, and it can't stand up against the quality output from the major players. It lacks the spark, atmosphere, and laughs to make it a compelling kids' movie.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the relationship between Buddy and Felix in StarDog and TurboCat. How does it challenge the stereotype of dogs and cats not getting along? How can we apply those messages to human society?
Many of the characters bicker, even when they're friends. How could they communicate better with each other?
Buddy and his owner's bond lasts for years. Why do you think dogs and humans can have such good relationships?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 6, 2019
- On DVD or streaming : June 19, 2020
- Cast : Luke Evans , Nick Frost , Gemma Arterton
- Director : Ben Smith
- Inclusion Information : Asian Movie Director(s) , Gay Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Kaleidoscope Film Distribution
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Superheroes , Animals
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : rude material/language and some mild action
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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