The Secret Life of Pets
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to The Secret Life of Pets
The Secret Life of Pets (2016) is an animated comedy film that delves into the secret lives of domesticated animals in a bustling Manhattan apartment building when their human owners are away. The narrative centers on Max, a pampered terrier, whose idyllic life is disrupted by the arrival of Duke, a large, shaggy stray. Their initial rivalry inadvertently leads them on a perilous adventure through the streets of New York City, where they encounter a diverse range of characters, including a rebellious faction of abandoned pets led by the seemingly cute but villainous rabbit, Snowball. The film explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and acceptance as Max and Duke are forced to overcome their differences to find their way home. Concurrently, Max's friends embark on their own determined rescue mission. With its vibrant animation, fast-paced action, and slapstick humor, the movie aims to entertain a family audience. However, parents should be aware of frequent cartoon violence, some intense chase sequences, and thematic elements that may be frightening or concerning for younger or more sensitive viewers.
Things to Consider
Violence
The film features frequent cartoonish violence, slapstick fights, and several intense scenes of peril that can be frightening for young viewers. Characters face threats of bodily harm, chase sequences, and dangerous situations, with implied death and explicit threats.
Max and Duke are repeatedly ambushed and engaged in physical altercations, such as a fierce encounter with a gang of aggressive alley cats. Snowball, the rabbit leader of the Flushed Pets, bites a dog catcher, and he and his gang explicitly discuss using a blender to kill someone. A highly intense scene involves Max and Duke being trapped inside a sinking animal control van, struggling to breathe and nearly drowning. Furthermore, one character reportedly experiences a 'very violent death'.
Profanity
The film contains some mild to moderate profanity, primarily through exclamations, but also includes stronger language that elevates its severity. Beyond common insults, specific curse words are used in certain scenes.
Scary & Intense Content
The film contains several intense and potentially frightening sequences that may disturb very young or sensitive children. These include menacing characters, dark environments, explicit threats of violence, and prolonged moments of peril.
Disrespect & Rebellion
The movie prominently features instances of disrespect and rebellion, both among the main characters and the antagonist group. This includes deceptive actions, explicit defiance of authority, and an ideology of hatred and revenge.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
The Secret Life of Pets is generally recommended for children aged 8 and older, with parental guidance advised for those between 8-10 years. While it offers humor and heartwarming themes, the film contains frequent cartoon violence, perilous situations, and intense scenes, such as near-drowning, that may be too frightening for children under 8 years old.
Good to Know
The sequel, 'The Secret Life of Pets 2,' introduces new elements not present in the first film, such as a cat on catnip and a male character in cross-dressing during a post-credits scene. Parents interested in the franchise should note that content can evolve in later installments.
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