Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days (2017) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days (2017) is the third installment in the live-action adaptation of Jeff Kinney’s beloved book series. Directed by David Bowers, this family-friendly film continues the adventures of middle schooler Greg Heffley, played by Jason Drucker, as he navigates the challenges of summer vacation, friendship, and family dynamics. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, performances, themes, and where to watch it online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Summer of Mishaps
Set during the summer vacation, Dog Days follows Greg Heffley as he attempts to make the most of his time off from school. Eager to impress his crush, Holly Hills (Sophia Lillis), Greg concocts a plan to have the perfect summer filled with fun activities, including a trip to the local pool and the chance to win Holly’s heart.
However, things quickly spiral out of control as Greg’s plans are thwarted by a series of comedic mishaps. From disastrous family outings to complications with his best friend Rowley (Owen Asztalos), Greg finds himself caught in a web of chaos that puts his summer goals at risk. The film captures the ups and downs of summer life as Greg learns valuable lessons about friendship, responsibility, and the importance of being true to oneself.
Performances: A Relatable Cast
Jason Drucker steps into the role of Greg Heffley, bringing the character’s wit and charm to life. Drucker effectively captures Greg’s personality, showcasing his humorous antics while also revealing his insecurities and desires. His performance resonates with the audience, making Greg a relatable character for both kids and adults alike.
Owen Asztalos delivers a delightful performance as Rowley, Greg’s loyal and somewhat naive best friend. The chemistry between Drucker and Asztalos adds to the film’s charm, highlighting the dynamics of childhood friendship. The duo’s comedic timing and interactions create many of the film’s laugh-out-loud moments.
Sophia Lillis shines as Holly Hills, providing a sweet and endearing counterpart to Greg’s character. The supporting cast, including Charlie Wright as Greg’s older brother Rodrick and Tom Everett Scott as their father, contribute to the film’s humor and heart, enhancing the familial aspect of the story.
Themes of Friendship and Growth
At its core, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days explores themes of friendship, family, and personal growth. Throughout the film, Greg learns the importance of loyalty and support from his friends, particularly as he navigates the challenges of adolescence.
The film also emphasizes the significance of family bonds. Greg’s interactions with his family—especially his father—highlight the comedic yet relatable aspects of family life, showcasing both the love and frustrations that come with it. The narrative encourages viewers to appreciate their families and the small moments that often go overlooked.
Additionally, Dog Days addresses the theme of self-acceptance. As Greg faces various setbacks and learns to cope with disappointment, he ultimately discovers the value of being himself rather than trying to conform to others’ expectations. This lesson resonates with young audiences, encouraging them to embrace their individuality.
Visual Style and Direction
David Bowers’ direction brings a vibrant and energetic style to the film, effectively capturing the lighthearted essence of summer adventures. The cinematography highlights various colorful locations, including the local pool, the Heffley home, and the surrounding neighborhood, immersing viewers in the carefree atmosphere of summer vacation.
The film’s pacing keeps the story engaging, balancing comedic moments with heartfelt scenes. The use of visual gags and slapstick humor aligns well with the tone of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.
Critical Reception: A Family-Friendly Film
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days received mixed to positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. Fans of the book series appreciated the film’s humor and relatability, noting its ability to capture the essence of the source material. While some critics pointed out that the film follows familiar tropes, the overall charm and lightheartedness resonated with viewers, particularly younger audiences.
The film successfully continues the legacy of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid franchise, appealing to fans of the books and new viewers alike. It’s a fun and entertaining addition that remains true to the spirit of Greg Heffley’s adventures.
Streaming Services: Where to Watch Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days Online
As of 2024, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days is available on several streaming platforms in the U.S., allowing fans of the franchise to enjoy the film.
Streaming Platforms
- Disney+
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days is available for streaming on Disney+, making it easily accessible for subscribers.
- Amazon Prime Video
- The film can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video for subscribers, with options for rental and purchase for those without a Prime subscription.
- Hulu
- The film is available on Hulu, providing an excellent option for families looking to enjoy a lighthearted movie night.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Google Play Movies & TV
- Viewers can rent or purchase Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days on Google Play, making it convenient to watch on various devices.
- Vudu
- Vudu offers the film for rent or purchase, allowing for flexibility in viewing options.
- Microsoft Store
- The film is also available for rental and purchase through the Microsoft Store, catering to Xbox and Windows users.
Conclusion: A Fun Family Adventure
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days (2017) is a charming and entertaining film that captures the essence of childhood summer adventures and the importance of friendship and family. With relatable characters, humorous situations, and heartwarming moments, the film resonates with audiences of all ages.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or new to Greg Heffley’s world, Dog Days offers a delightful escape into the trials and tribulations of growing up. With multiple streaming options available, you can easily enjoy this family-friendly film and share in the laughter and lessons of summer.
