The Secret Life of Pets

[Kyle]

Just saw this movie and I loved it. I was hesitant because the trailers didn't catch my interest, thought it would be a Toy Story clone and while it has similarities it's largely it's own movie. I can easily say one of my favorite movies this summer 9/10, it reminded me of classic Disney animal films like 'The Aristocats' and 'Oliver Twist' as well as the 'All Dogs Go To Heaven' and 'Homeward Bound' films. I can not say enough good things about this movie. Only thing holding it back from a 10 is because I can't say it's the best of the genre and I have a hard time giving 10s. I just, really loved this movie. One of the few times this summer where immediately afterwards I thought "I have to buy this the day it comes out!"

Spoiler

My favorite scene is the "drug trip" scene, if you've ever wondered what animals imagine while they're tripping on cat nip... Or on sausages, this movie has that in spades. A really weird, nutty scene that would fit right into the Lego movie. I don't want to spoil it too much, but you have to see this scene to believe it. Sooo funny and hilariously probably soo right as well.

 

[Quasimod0]

I've gotta say that I'm on the other end of the spectrum. This felt like one of those animated movies you watch and then afterwards you feel like "eh, that was alright." I didn't think the plot was anything original or fresh (pretty much just toy story with pets for the most part). The humor didn't connect with me (except for a few lines here and there) either, and I just don't think I'm into this kind of super-slapsticky type of humor.

There was some creative stuff done with showing what the pets were up to when the owners are gone, but almost all of that stuff was shown in the trailers. After the first few minutes I felt like the movie just became a pretty basic story and lost that spark that it had in the beginning. Kinda felt like a short film that was expanded into a feature-length movie.

Additionally, there were a few moments where the movie could have gone to an emotional place and had a really good tear-jerking scene, but they just basically gloss over those things.

I've gotta say that I really enjoyed the jazzy soundtrack, and some of the humor. Ultimately the movie was just an empty experience to me though, and nothing connected emotionally. There is no scene that I have very fond memories of, and I saw it two days ago. I wouldn't say it was a poorly made film, and my audience loved it. It just wasn't for me. 5/10

 

[Kyle]

Should note I'm also the ideal target demographic for this film. I'm more of an animal person than a people person. I've had pets since I was a baby, literally all my life. And I've always loved these kinds of films whether it be live action or animation, something about them just hits home for me on so many levels. Oddly, I found it nostalgic as well which I didn't expect - as said those films really meant a lot to me while growing up (in addition to '101 Dalmations,' 'Fox and the Hound,' etc.). Should also note disliked the Minions movies and the Despicable Me movies, which was another thing that originally made me skeptic about it - this is the first film this team has made that I didn't just like but loved. Plus, one of the scenes I'm really wondering if Phil Lord and Chris Miller had a hand in or were consulted for because it is really their style and approach lol.

 

[Octoberist]

I love Toy Story: Secret Life of Pets

 

[Quasimod0]

I'm glad you liked it Kyle! It's good to see somebody excited about a movie, even if I don't share the same opinions.

Here's something weird I noticed while watching the movie: I leaned over to my fiance' and said "that cat has a butthole." lol. The main grey cat had a butthole. I'm not sure if I've ever seen an animated animal have one of those before. Struck me as an odd design choice.

 

[Kyle]

I love Toy Story: Secret Life of Pets

It is a lot a like. But, similarly to how Toy Story showed you an interesting world of toys - this showed you an interesting world of pets. I'd say if there was a drive-in the two would make a great double feature.

 

[Supernova]

It was forgettable by kid movies standards. When I left with my kid I didnt feel anything, or any long lasting impression.

 

[Lencho01]

I love Toy Story: Secret Life of Pets

You mean The Brave Little Toaster: Toy Story: The Secret Life of Pets.

 

[mclay18]

I thought this was enjoyable. The voice talent were actually well-picked, especially Louis C.K. and Lake Bell. Chloe's antics (partly seen in the trailers) had me in stitches. Even Kevin Hart wasn't bad as Snowbell. And the Minions short was hysterical.

Universal and Illumination Entertainment have already greenlit the sequel for a July 13, 2018 release. Writer Brian Lynch is returning, as is director Chris Renaud.