A sequel to the 2017 weep-fest that was A Dog’s Purpose (and not to be confused with the similar A Dog’s Way Home), A Dog’s Journey picks up the story of adorable pooch Bailey (voiced by Gad), who is happily settled, living with Ethan (Quaid) and his wife (Marg Helgenberger) on a picturesque Michigan farm.
He’s also got their granddaughter CJ to play with, but when CJ and her rather dysfunctional mum Gloria (Gilpin) move away, Bailey – who, if you remember, keeps his adorable soul through many reincarnated doggy bodies – pledges to always look out for her. And that’s quite a promise, since in his various incarnations he sees her during those difficult teenage years, a fall out with her mother, an unsuitable boyfriend and a move to New York.
It’s heart-warming and often amusing stuff that should please canine lovers who enjoyed the first movie, and while the plot is predictable, there are enough sweet pooch moments to cause even the strongest viewers to shed at least a couple of tears.
Is A Dog’s Journey suitable for kids? Here are our parents’ notes...
The book on which A Dog’s Journey was based was not written for children, but while some of the more serious themes have not transferred to the film adaptation, parents should note the story touches on some grown up themes including a serious illness, and a possible stalker threat that may not be suitable for very young children.
Children (and adults!) may be upset when Ethan’s version of Bailey dies, and when another character passes.
There are some references to alcoholism and drug use.
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