The Secret Life of Pets
Starring Louis C.K., Eric Stonestreet
Directed by Chris Renaud, Yarrow Cheney
It may not break any new narrative ground but The Secret Life of Pets provides plenty of breezy, animated summer charms. From the studio behind the highly successful Despicable Me flicks, the movie begins with a New York City terrier named Max (C.K.) who enjoys the quiet life with his owner in their highrise apartment. Before long, a serious case of pseudo-sibling rivalry ensues after a recently rescued stray called Duke (Stonestreet) is adopted and enters the fray.
What transpires is predictable from afar – dogs get in precarious situation, meet other adorable and not-so-adorable animals, have bonding adventure, put their differences aside – but the journey is full of laughs, dressed up with some rather gorgeous animation, and even contains enough heart to add the right amount of depth.
The movie features a lot of celebrity vocal talent and the cast does a credible job of enhancing their respective characters. In addition to C.K. and Stonestreet, Ellie Kemper, Lake Bell, Jenny Slate, Bobby Moynihan, Hannibal Buress, Dana Carvey and Albert Brooks are just some of the highlights. However, it’s Kevin Hart’s tough-talking bunny Snowball who steals the show. The Secret Life of Pets is never as endearing as it could have been and not every character makes a lasting impression. But, the film does provide a high-energy, joke-filled escape that combines plenty of wit with good old-fashioned slapstick.
While never rising to greatness yet fully capitalizing on the broad appeal and intriguing premise, the movie manages to gleefully find its footing.
