What do you get when you cross a talking dog with Einstein-like smarts and a Back-to-the-Future style time machine? You’d get the latest kids movie, Mr. Peabody & Sherman.
Plot summary
According to the Internet Movie Database, the movie focuses on “the time-travelling adventures of an advanced canine (“Mr. Peabody”) and his adopted son (“Sherman”), as they endeavor to fix a time rift they created.”
Positive Elements
The themes of friendship and a father-son bond run strong throughout the movie. The animated feature also shows how people of various backgrounds—and time eras!—can come together for the common good. Further, the movie exposes children to some significant historical figures they might not otherwise know, such as Agamemnon (of the Iliad).
Negative Elements
This is one of those movies I almost walked out. There is bathroom humor used more than once, and there are several positive references made to Eastern religions and yoga that could be problematic. Compared to the average movie for kids today, these were rather mild. There also was a dismissive comment made about George Washington not really cutting down the cherry tree, which could foster some skepticism in our youth.
Overall
The very concept of time travel has fascinated mankind for ages. The ways in which it is depicted in this comedy are, of course, make believe. At its worst, this movie will further entrench some misconceptions about historical figures and cater to our base desire for bathroom humor. At its best, this movie will encourage children to learn more about history and the other ages, and learn about the importance of family ties.
Rating
2 stars (out of 4)
Photo credit: DreamWorks