Review: Impressive Reboot of Popular Children’s Story Comes to Theaters

Maddisen Keeley, Student of Journalism

The popular children’s book series “Clifford the Big Red Dog” has returned to the world of entertainment, and this time around, to the big screens on Nov. 10. The new live-action movie was released through both Marcus Theaters and Paramount Plus, rolling in $22.2 million within the first five days of release in the theaters.

The story follows a unique young girl named Emily and her newly gifted red-furred puppy who magically grows 10 feet just overnight. The classic lesson of learning to love oneself despite differences they may have is clear as day here in the story.

The popular children’s book series is well known among teens and young adults today because, as kids, they followed the series. Not only should children and teens make a visit to the theater, but parents and grandparents as well. The first Clifford book was published in 1963 and proved to be a huge success within the first year for young children. Many 60 to 65-year-olds today grew up with the fun-loving and joyful stories of Clifford, and that is exactly what is exhibited in the film. 

I, too, watched the series and read many of the books as a child; it is a timeless adventure. I took my chance to travel into the world of Clifford yet again, and I can confidently say that there are no regrets whatsoever. The producers and directors who put the film to sea capture a silhouette of the magic included in the original Clifford series. There is not one part of the movie that does not scream a mirror of memories from the classic.

The film starring Darby Camp and Jack Whitehall will easily appeal to children eight years of age or older even with the included language and humor that could be perceived as crude. With this being said, the humor is not too cheesy either. 

This new and live-action-made movie replicates the fun-loving and crazy life of Clifford and Emily, but adds a tad more emotional value and runs with a faster pace (action).

Whether a kid at heart or would like to introduce the returning of Clifford with a child or a younger sibling, it is the perfect movie for Clifford fans.