Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days

I read an article recently referring to Diary of a Wimpy Kid as a very unlikely film series. But given the popularity of the children’s books they’re based on and the success with which the actors play out the hi-jinx, the series, which now has a full trilogy, can probably be considered a success. In Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days, the main character, Greg, (Zachary Gordon) takes on summer in his constant quest to avoid work, improve his popularity and impress his schoolyard crush, Holly Hills (Peyton List).

The vague theme for the movie allows for a different approach. The Diary of a Wimpy Kid stories had relied on an episodic approach during the first two installments. The way each plot point would come and go seemed fitting for a Nickelodeon type sit-com, but also worked on the big screen. Now with the third title, there is more of a traditional story arc. There are instances though where this development takes away from the number of laughs that occur. That can also be attributed to the nature of the jokes being told. The older brother, Rodrick (Devon Bostwick) comes across as more of a pathetic character than the witty but clueless teen he was previously presented as. And the time spent with the best friend, Rowley, (Robert Capron) and his family are a bit on the awkward side. There is much more cringing while watching this one.

The film still fundamentally succeeds in presenting a family friendly story that doesn’t come across as censored or forced. The characters are realistic and while the themes and messages parents would be happy about are there (building a father/son relationship, spending time together as a family) Greg never has a fundamental change of heart that breaks authenticity. He wants to sit inside all summer playing videogames and in the end he still feels that way. Dog Days falls short of its predecessors, but it still succeeds in presenting a fun story for children of many demographics.

Each film earns either zero, a half or a full arrow in five categories. The categories are Acting, Writing/Directing, Emotion, Innovation and Overall Impression. The arrows are added up to equal the full score.