Parents' Guide to The Healing Powers of Dude

This hopeful series encourages awareness and understanding about what may be an unfamiliar condition in Noah's anxiety disorder. Because The Healing Powers of Dude tries to split time between the reality of Noah's struggles and the comical, often sarcastic opinions of his mutt companion, the overall presentation feels somewhat inconsistent. It's no Wonder, but there's slapstick, a goofy sidekick, a hapless principal, and many manners of tween foibles, as well as some exceedingly sympathetic moments in which Noah's anxiety threatens to swallow him up (literally, thanks to the show's visual effects that simulate his panic sensations). Both aspects of the story are worthwhile, but the constant shift from one to the other distracts rather than enhances the whole.

That said, the show clearly has merit, and it's always refreshing to see a show that makes an effort to promote diversity on the screen. Noah's condition is discussed at length, of course, but his friend Amara's physical disability (though visible) is not, nor is she hindered by it. Ultimately this speaks to the show's messages about choosing kindness, respecting diversity, and being confident in yourself regardless of what makes you different. And while the somewhat corny ruminating-dog shtick might be off-putting for adults who watch, it likely will help keep kids' interest in the show.