Strays (2023)

Review Team

4/5

Strays is a charming exploration of loyalty and self-discovery, packaged within the narrative of a dog’s journey through the unforgiving city streets. Reggie, voiced with heartfelt sincerity, starts as a naive pet, convinced that his abandonment is merely a misunderstanding. The film's pacing allows ... Show more >> Strays is a charming exploration of loyalty and self-discovery, packaged within the narrative of a dog’s journey through the unforgiving city streets. Reggie, voiced with heartfelt sincerity, starts as a naive pet, convinced that his abandonment is merely a misunderstanding. The film's pacing allows for a gradual unveiling of character depth, particularly through his interactions with Bug, a streetwise stray who embodies freedom and wisdom. The direction is commendable, capturing both the humour and the poignant moments that resonate with audiences. While it may not break new ground in storytelling, its emotional core and relatable themes make it a delightful watch. The animation is vibrant, and the voice performances are engaging, particularly from the lead cast. Overall, Strays offers a fulfilling cinematic experience that leaves viewers with a sense of hope and warmth. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Strays attempts to tackle some heavy themes with a light-hearted approach, but it sometimes feels like it’s treading familiar ground. Sure, the story of Reggie discovering his worth after being abandoned is heartwarming, but the execution lacks a certain edge. The humour is hit or miss, and while Bu ... Show more >> Strays attempts to tackle some heavy themes with a light-hearted approach, but it sometimes feels like it’s treading familiar ground. Sure, the story of Reggie discovering his worth after being abandoned is heartwarming, but the execution lacks a certain edge. The humour is hit or miss, and while Bug provides some comic relief, his character can feel one-dimensional at times. The animation is bright and appealing, which helps to offset some of the film's more predictable moments. I found myself wishing for more depth in the supporting characters, as they often felt like mere background players in Reggie's journey. That said, it’s still an enjoyable watch for families, with enough charm to keep younger viewers entertained. If you’re looking for something groundbreaking, you might want to look elsewhere, but Strays is a decent choice for a light-hearted evening. Show less