Top critic
Indian Express
Film review ·
The film ends up being about two hostile animals in mortal peril till they literally come out swimming.


Funny and bright but runs on a story too thin to leave a real mark.
Verdict tier Mixed, lukewarm or divided, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.
Not streaming in India
Critic consensus
The critical consensus on The Secret Life of Pets is moderately positive, with most reviewers finding it an enjoyable, lighthearted animated entertainer. Critics most commonly praised its humor and visual execution, with several noting it delivers consistent laughs and is well-suited for families and pet lovers. The most frequent criticism is that the story is formulaic and unoriginal, with some noting it lacks lasting depth or the zaniness of comparable animated films. A minority found the adventure plotline implausible and the overall experience forgettable beyond the viewing experience.
4 not-rated reviews aren't plotted
Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10
AI-generated summary of 13 critic reviews · may contain errors
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Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated
Top critic
Film review ·
The film ends up being about two hostile animals in mortal peril till they literally come out swimming.
Film review ·
So even though none of this is wholly original, I laughed all the way through The Secret Life of Pets - even at jokes that were really dumb or obvious or broad, because they were so expertly written and delivered. This is a kid's movie through and through - but for anyone who has loved some furry creature or the other, you'll absolutely love this one.
Film review ·
TSLOP makes for a great evening out with friends and children. It is a rather straightforward tale about pets, the importance of friendship and being there for one another when it matters most. And that while there are bad humans (think: the Chennai medical college students) here's a reminder that there are good, kind ones, too. And it doesn't hurt, that it's rather funny, too.
Film review ·
It wouldn't take much of a stretch of imagination to think that the filmmakers themselves love animals. All in all, Pets comes across as a breath of fresh air in the world of animated films.
Film review ·
The greatest accomplishment of the film — as of say, a Baby's Day Out — is their assimilation of the diverse landscapes of the city itself.
Film review ·
All seen and savoured, Secret Life of Pets makes for an ideal rainy-day matinée.
Film review ·
The film has a brisk pace, but the story is pretty much well-trodden and playing to type. Also the plotline goes beserk trying to invent an adventure that might not seem all that plausible or affecting. If you are a dog lover, you will love this all the way through. If you are a pet lover (and I mean a generic one) you will find this a harmless entertainer but if you hate pets or are allergic to them, then you might not be wholeheartedly impressed by their shenanigans on screen. And that's the way this cookie crumbles.
Film review ·
The Secret Life of Pets won't stay with you for long, but while you're watching it, it's impossible to ignore.
Film review ·
Visually the 3D effects and the computer generated animated images are marvellous. The animals are perfectly anthropomorphized. And the engaging voices of the ace-star cast resonate with the right blend of emotions. The Secret Life of Pets is an attractive film that would appeal to pet lovers.
Film review ·
You certainly won't look at your pets the same way again! The tagline says it all: 'Ever wonder what your pets do when you're not home?' Guess we'll never really know…
Film review ·
Well-made, well thought out and slickly executed, The Secret Life Of Pets is one of the funniest animated movies in recent years. Pet lovers especially will enjoy this kooky concoction of cute and sass.
Film review ·
Kinetic at times, colourful and with scattered humour, The Secret Life Of Pets is a treat for children, but offers no great insights into the secret life of pets.
Film review ·
The Secret Life of Pets is beautifully realised but often misses the zaniness of Despicable Me and Minions (which was co-directed by Renaud and Pierre Coffin). The dialogue is less funny than the antics of the scatterbrain animals and birds.
Credits
English films like The Secret Life of Pets