"The Secret Life of Pets," released in 2016, is an animated comedy film that takes viewers on a hilarious and heartwarming journey into the hidden lives of our beloved pets.
Directed by Chris Renaud and Yarrow Cheney, this family-friendly film explores the adventures and misadventures that ensue when pets are left to their own devices in a bustling Manhattan apartment building. In this wiki-style post, we will delve into the plot, cast, production, critical reception, box office performance, and the movie's enduring legacy.
Overview:
"The Secret Life of Pets" is set in a New York City apartment building where pets of all shapes and sizes reside. The story primarily follows Max, a loyal terrier who lives a comfortable life with his owner Katie. Max's world is turned upside down when Katie brings home a new rescue dog named Duke.
The two initially clash but are soon forced to work together when they find themselves lost in the city. Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including Gidget, a pampered Pomeranian, and Snowball, a rebellious rabbit, each with their own quirks and personalities.
Cast and Characters:
- Max (voiced by Louis C.K.): The film's protagonist, a loyal and protective terrier.
- Duke (voiced by Eric Stonestreet): Max's new and initially unwelcome roommate.
- Gidget (voiced by Jenny Slate): A spunky Pomeranian with a crush on Max.
- Snowball (voiced by Kevin Hart): A fearless and somewhat unhinged rabbit who leads an underground group of abandoned pets.
- Chloe (voiced by Lake Bell): A lazy and overweight cat who lives in the same apartment building.
- Buddy (voiced by Hannibal Buress): A laid-back dachshund who enjoys listening to heavy metal music.
Where to Stream
United States (US)
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
Streaming: Not available for streaming in the US.
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Redbox, DIRECTV, Spectrum On Demand
Australia (AU)
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Streaming: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BINGE, Foxtel Now, Netflix Kids, Netflix basic with Ads
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Telstra TV, Fetch TV
United Kingdom (GB)
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Streaming: Sky Go, Now TV Cinema
Purchase/Rent: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Rakuten TV
Germany (DE)
There are currently no streaming offers in the DE.
Streaming: Netflix, Netflix Kids, Netflix basic with Ads
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Amazon Video, YouTube, Sky Store, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, MagentaTV, Microsoft Store
Brazil (BR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Claro video, Globoplay, NOW, Netflix basic with Ads, Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel, Telecine Play
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Amazon Video
Spain (ES)
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
Streaming: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix basic with Ads, SkyShowtime
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Rakuten TV, Google Play Movies, Amazon Video, Movistar Plus
France (FR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
Streaming: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix basic with Ads
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, YouTube, FILMO, Canal VOD, Rakuten TV, Universcine, Bbox VOD, Amazon Video
Canada (CA)
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, Crave, Crave Starz, Club Illico, Starz Amazon Channel
Purchase/Rent: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Amazon Video
Production:
The production of "The Secret Life of Pets" involved meticulous attention to detail in animating the characters and their surroundings. The animation team worked to capture the nuances of animal behavior, ensuring that each character's movements and expressions were authentic and endearing.
The film's New York City setting was also meticulously recreated, providing a visually vibrant backdrop for the story's adventures.
Critical Reception:
"The Secret Life of Pets" received generally positive reviews from both critics and audiences alike. Critics praised the film's charming characters, engaging storyline, and impressive animation.
The chemistry between Max and Duke, in particular, was highlighted as one of the film's strengths. The film's humor, which appealed to both children and adults, was also well-received.
Box Office Performance:
The movie performed exceptionally well at the box office, becoming a commercial success. It grossed over $875 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing animated films of its time. Its success solidified Illumination Entertainment's reputation as a major player in the animation industry.
Legacy:
"The Secret Life of Pets" left a lasting impact on the world of animated films. It spawned a successful sequel, "The Secret Life of Pets 2," released in 2019, which continued the adventures of Max and his friends.
The franchise also expanded to include merchandise, video games, and theme park attractions, further cementing its place in popular culture. Additionally, the film resonated with pet owners, sparking conversations and speculations about what their own pets might do when they're left alone.
In conclusion, "The Secret Life of Pets" (2016) is a heartwarming and entertaining animated film that provides a glimpse into the secret lives of our furry companions. With a talented voice cast, impressive animation, and a storyline that appeals to all ages, it has earned its place as a beloved family movie.
Its success at the box office and the enduring legacy it has created within the world of animation make it a significant entry in the genre. Whether you're a pet owner or simply a fan of animated movies, "The Secret Life of Pets" is a delightful adventure worth experiencing.