Name: Clifford the Big Red Dog
Genre: Family, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
Released: 2021-11-10T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Darby Camp, Jack Whitehall, Izaac Wang, John Cleese, Tony Hale

The opening shot of Clifford the Big Red Dog is a close-up of Emily Elizabeth’s face, her eyes wide with wonder as she gazes at a small red puppy—her future best friend. It’s a moment that sets up the film’s central theme: the power of unconditional love. Directed by Walt Becker from a screenplay by Blaise Hemingway, this 2021 live-action and animated hybrid aims to bring Norman Bridwell’s beloved children’s book series to life on the big screen.

The story follows Emily Elizabeth (Darby Camp), who struggles to fit in at home and school until she discovers Clifford, a small red puppy destined to become her best friend. When Clifford magically grows into a gigantic dog and attracts the attention of a genetics company, Emily and her Uncle Casey (Jack Whitehall) go on the run across New York City. Along the way, Clifford’s sheer size and friendly demeanor bring joy and teach everyone around him about acceptance and love.

What works in Clifford the Big Red Dog is its heart. The film excels in capturing the bond between Emily Elizabeth and Clifford, a relationship that forms the emotional core of the story. Darby Camp delivers a sincere performance as Emily Elizabeth, conveying her character’s loneliness and eventual joy through subtle expressions and gestures. Jack Whitehall as Uncle Casey brings a lighthearted charm to the screen, adding a layer of humor that balances the film’s more sentimental moments.

The animation of Clifford is also noteworthy. The CGI rendition of the big red dog is visually appealing, with his expressive eyes and friendly demeanor making him an instantly lovable character. The scenes where Clifford interacts with the live-action characters are seamlessly integrated, creating a believable world where a giant dog can coexist with humans.

However, Clifford the Big Red Dog falters in its pacing and originality. The plot is predictable, relying heavily on familiar tropes of family films. The genetics company subplot feels tacked on and lacks the depth to make it a compelling antagonist. Additionally, the film’s humor often falls flat, with jokes that feel more suited for younger children but may not resonate as strongly with older audiences.

The supporting cast, including John Cleese as Mr. Bridwell, Tony Hale as Zack Tieran, and David Alan Grier as Packard, deliver competent performances but are given little to do beyond their archetypal roles. The film’s attempt to blend adventure, comedy, and fantasy genres results in a somewhat disjointed narrative that struggles to find its footing.

Ultimately, Clifford the Big Red Dog is a watchable family film that delivers on its central message of love and acceptance but lacks the originality and depth to stand out in a crowded field.