Finding Dory Review

Fans have waited 13 years for the return of Nemo, Marlin and Dory. Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory hits theaters on June 17th, and moviegoers can’t wait for its release.

This past week, I had the pleasure of attending the red carpet — excuse me, BLUE carpet event for Finding Dory. We walked the carpet with cast and crew, and watched the feature film at the historic El Capitan Theater.

It was a dream! I’d never attended a red carpet event, and was told that Disney red carpets are always unique, exciting and magical. It most definitely was. We also attended the after-party, which included meeting with fun-loving celebrities and cast members, enjoying Finding Dory themed games and crafts, and dancing the night away. Each member of our junket had a wonderful time, even attending as journalists.

Guess what? This Finding Dory Review will contain no spoilers. I promise! There are questions that many parents tend to ask when wanting to take their young kiddos to movies, which include Disney Animation and Disney•Pixar films. I want to make sure to answer those questions for you.

How Long Is Finding Dory?

Finding Dory runs about 1 hour 37 minutes. With the Piper short film (which you are going to LOVE), and without the anticipated previews, your total time in theater should be less than 2 hours. If you can get your kiddos to go to the restroom and get settled before Piper starts, that would be wise. You won’t want to miss a minute of Finding Dory.

What Age Is Appropriate For Finding Dory?

The film is rated PG, which is probably because of some of the action within the film. It’s fun and exciting, so the kids will love that. Kaitlin Olson, the voice of Destiny, mentioned in our interview with her that one of her kiddos thought “the octopus was scary.” Hank (voiced by Ed O’Neill) is pretty cantankerous, but he’s not all that scary. That said, smaller kids might see him as rough in the beginning of the film, so be prepared for that. The jokes were funny for the whole family. Nothing crass, so you’ll find yourself, and your kids, laughing out loud during many parts of the movie. I mean, it’s Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Kaitlin Olson, Ty Burrell, Ed O’Neill and Eugene Levy all in one film. You’re going to guffaw.

Are The Lessons Learned Good For All Ages?

As a mom of a 10, 5, and 1 year old, I would say yes. My 1 year old might not learn many life lessons from the film, but he’ll enjoy the fun of it all. My tween and school age kids will learn so much from Finding Dory, and I hope it will spark some great conversations about family dynamics. Plus, there are some fun facts that you’re going to learn about marine animals. No spoilers!

All and all, your family is going to enjoy Finding Dory. It’s heartwarming, hilarious, and will leave you thinking about what the word family means to you.