Mr. Peabody & Sherman: movie review

I was recently contacted to see if I'd be interested in attending an advanced screening of the latest animated release from DreamWorks, "Mr. Peabody & Sherman." In all honesty, I had no idea what the movie was about. Knowing it was aimed towards kids, I checked in with my 6 year old to gauge his interest and see if this was something we should follow up with. The kid knew EXACTLY what the movie was about. Well, as much as a 6 year old can glean from the trailer, at least. Based on his excitement, plans were made, and our little family of four was set to see a movie in the theater all together.

The movie opens in theaters today, and I'd definitely recommend it. The story is based on an old cartoon segment from the 1950's. A genius, talking dog adopts and raises a boy as his own. That's Mr. Peabody and his boy, Sherman. A little far fetched (har har), but cute, and my kids never questioned the logic behind it. Mr. Peabody has invented a time machine, which he uses to take his boy to experience history for himself. When Sherman uses the "way back" machine to show a girl from school what he can do, a whole slew of mishaps and hi-jinx ensues. Lucky for all of us, it's actually pretty cleverly done.

The movie is in 3D, which I somehow didn't realize. It was interesting explaining to the kids that they got to wear "special movie glasses." N was done with hers before the movie even started, though, but it didn't stop her from enjoying the show. G made it about 2/3 of the way through the movie before he quit wearing his. I don't get it - wouldn't you rather watch the non-blurry version, kids? Maybe it's just me and my messed up adult thinking.

There were quite a few good jokes that were geared toward the older crowd in the audience (ie me), and without adult themes or double entendres. Seriously, how have some filmmakers justified sexual innuendo in children's movies? "Mr. Peabody & Sherman" successfully entertained our whole family while keeping it clean. I was pleasantly surprised that the movie was even able to keep the attention of my 2 year old.

So if you're looking for something fun to do with the kids this weekend, I wholeheartedly recommend making your way to the theater for "Mr. Peabody and Sherman". It's a smart, funny movie with an engaging storyline that I honestly enjoyed. What made the experience even better was hearing my kids laughing along throughout the movie. The fact that both kids were wiped out for the night within minutes of leaving the theater parking lot was just icing on the cake.

Do you have plans to see any upcoming movies? Which movies are you most excited for this year? Have you ever tried taking a toddler to a movie theater? It wasn't nearly as rough as I'd expected, but I think I owe that in part to the huge tub of popcorn we set in her lap. We all shared it, but I'm pretty sure she thought it was all hers. Plus, it weighted her down. Side note: Did you have any idea that movie theaters offer booster seats for kids? Life. Saver. 


Disclosure: I was given admission to this screening in exchange for agreeing to write this honest review of the movie. No other compensation was offered or received. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.