“Look Who’s Talking Now!” (1993) Movie Review: Family Fun with a Canine Twist
Introduction
“Look Who’s Talking Now!” is the third installment in the “Look Who’s Talking” series, released in 1993 and directed by Tom Ropelewski. This family comedy brings back John Travolta and Kirstie Alley, while adding the voices of Danny DeVito and Diane Keaton as the family dogs. The film introduces a new perspective with the addition of talking pets, providing a fresh and entertaining twist to the beloved franchise. This review covers the plot, performances, visual style, and where to stream or rent “Look Who’s Talking Now!” in the United States.
Plot Summary
The story follows the Ubriacco family as they navigate the challenges of work, family life, and the antics of their new pets. James (John Travolta) and Mollie (Kirstie Alley) are now parents to Mikey (David Gallagher) and Julie (Tabitha Lupien). As the holiday season approaches, James lands a new job as a private pilot for a wealthy executive, Samantha (Lysette Anthony), whose interest in James creates tension between him and Mollie.
Meanwhile, the family adopts two stray dogs: Rocks (voiced by Danny DeVito), a street-smart mutt, and Daphne (voiced by Diane Keaton), a pampered poodle. The two dogs initially clash but eventually form a bond as they try to protect the family and help resolve the Ubriaccos’ issues.
The film combines humorous situations and heartfelt moments as the Ubriaccos learn the true meaning of family and loyalty, with the dogs providing comedic relief and valuable life lessons.
Performance and Direction
John Travolta and Kirstie Alley reprise their roles with charm and chemistry, bringing warmth and humor to their portrayal of the Ubriacco parents. Their performances anchor the film, balancing the comedic and emotional aspects of the story.
Danny DeVito and Diane Keaton lend their distinctive voices to Rocks and Daphne, respectively. DeVito’s gruff and streetwise delivery contrasts perfectly with Keaton’s refined and sophisticated tone, creating a delightful dynamic between the two canine characters. Their interactions add an extra layer of fun to the film.
Director Tom Ropelewski keeps the tone light and family-friendly, ensuring that the film appeals to both children and adults. His direction emphasizes the humor and heart of the story, making “Look Who’s Talking Now!” an enjoyable experience for all ages.
Cinematography and Production Design
The cinematography by Oliver Stapleton captures the cozy and festive atmosphere of the holiday season, with bright and colorful visuals that enhance the film’s cheerful tone. The production design creates a welcoming and relatable setting for the Ubriacco family’s adventures, from their warm home to the snowy landscapes.
The special effects used to animate the dogs’ talking mouths are simple yet effective, adding to the whimsical charm of the film without overwhelming the story. The practical effects and animal training contribute to the film’s overall appeal, making the canine characters feel like integral parts of the family.
Streaming Availability
In the United States, “Look Who’s Talking Now!” is available for streaming on various platforms. You can watch it on:
- Amazon Prime Video (with a subscription)
- Hulu
- Tubi (free with ads)
Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or purchase “Look Who’s Talking Now!,” the film is available on multiple major platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- iTunes: Rent or buy with options for HD.
- Google Play: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- YouTube Movies: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- Vudu: Rent or buy in HDX, HD, and SD.
Conclusion
“Look Who’s Talking Now!” is a heartwarming and entertaining family comedy that successfully continues the story of the Ubriacco family while introducing a delightful new element with talking dogs. With strong performances from John Travolta and Kirstie Alley, and charming voice work by Danny DeVito and Diane Keaton, the film offers plenty of laughs and heartfelt moments. Fans of the “Look Who’s Talking” series and family-friendly comedies will find “Look Who’s Talking Now!” to be a delightful addition to their movie collection.
