Growing up, I could never resist the temptation to pop Homeward Bound into my cassette player and enjoy the endless adventure of a group of dogs trying to get home. And while Beverly Hills Chihuahua fails to recreate the magic and excitement of its icon, I can't help but appreciate its attempt. And with a stream of clever dialogue and adventurous endeavors, the new film isn't nearly as bad as expected. In fact, it was somewhat decent.
Following the life of Chloe, an overly pampered Chihuahua, Beverly Hills Chihuahua is cute to say the least. However, beyond that, the film lacks as it fails to keep up its beginning charisma, becoming a generic kid's tale by the end.
As the film begins, audiences are introduced to Chloe, an overly pampered Chihuahua who doesn't understand the struggles and inequalities of life. But when her mom has to leave on a sudden business trip, Chloe realizes that life isn't always great. Left in the care of her 'cousin' Rachel, Chloe is quickly introduced to the hardships of life as they embark on a fun trip to Mexico. But in a brave attempt to be recognized, Chloe ventures outside of the hotel, becoming a prime suspect to dog-wrestlers lurking in the brush. But after a candid fight and escape, Chloe enlists the help of her friends as they attempt to work together to get back to the good life known as Beverly Hills.
Sound generic? Sadly, it is. But that is not to say that the film isn't fun and entertaining. Prompted with clever lines and adorable dogs throughout, the film propels far beyond its potential, connecting with much of the audience as they laugh and love all the way through.
In fact, while watching the tale, I felt as if the film was trying to send a message of animal rights, using the mainstream media to tell its story. And not surprising, it worked flawlessly. Having an adorable dog attempt to escape the hardships of the dog-wrestling world, the film ventures deeper than most kid's films, allowing the adult audience to understand the message and take notice.
In addition, I have to harp on the overwhelming number of plot lines that consistently run throughout the film. From the who's chasing who to the Chihuahua kingdom, there was so much going on, that many will find themselves lost in all the chaos. It just seemed like they wanted to keep their audience's attention and therefore decided to add subplots to fill the dull moments. Though a strategic plan, it regretfully backfired.
But still, to the kids, the film is full of life and fun as it provides countless young jokes and innocent antics, which all roll together to form a story and film that everyone can enjoy. Sadly, I do not fall into the target audience of such a film. And though I have given it the mediocre grade of a C+, know that the kids will love the story and the dogs, making it a great affair for the entire family!
