Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue

Any family in need of a short, suspenseful film will be delighted by Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue. The sub-hour movie, directed by Charles E Bastien, is an exciting extension of the well-loved Paw Patrol franchise that is sure to keep little ones entertained. 

Though the feature takes place in the popular Paw Patrol universe, there is no requisite knowledge for enjoying the story, which follows a group of four race-car drivers battling against an aptly named newcomer, Cheetah, who employs mischievous and dangerous tricks and cheats to beat the other drivers. When one of her ill-intentioned manoeuvres causes Whoosh, the best driver, to sprain his arm, Marshall the fire-dog steps in to try to secure the title. As he trains tirelessly, he combats his own self-doubt. Along the way, the ruthless Cheetah and her tycoon-type uncle steal the drivers’ cars one by one, Agatha Christie-style, as she strives for the gold.

Though entirely captivating for younger audiences, those above the age of seven may find it predictable, completely implausible (even after accepting the notion of dogs racing humans in automobiles) and frustrating. Adults will be left wondering how a car can possibly drive from rural England to the polar ice caps to the desert and back again in a matter of minutes, or how neither the drivers nor the audience or judges realise the frankly obvious tactics employed by Cheetah. However, for its intended demographic, the movie is sure to be a hit fast-paced enough to keep young ones entertained and simple enough to be easily understandable. The values of self-assurance, courage and determination in the face of unfair obstacles are underscored, and the lack of attempts to seek revenge on Cheetah is commendable. 

Overall, Paw Patrol is a fun, bright and well-produced movie, featuring the voices of Anya Cooke, Issac Heeks, Lukas Engel, Addison Holley and Kallan Holley. Though unsuited for older audiences, its brevity, lightheartedness and emphasis on confidence and kindness are sure to be appreciated by the whole family.

Laura Boyle

Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue is released nationwide on 24^th January 2020.

Watch the trailer for Paw Patrol: Ready, Race, Rescue here: