A sequel to the prehistoric hit The Croods is in theaters now. The Croods: A New Age starts off where the first movie left off with another perilous adventure. And with the way parenting feels in 2020, I couldn’t help but relate to Grug and Ugga Crood as unknown dangers seem to lurk about everywhere. No, I am not exactly dealing with land sharks or punch monkeys, but I can definitely see value in the Crood’s family philosophy that the pack must always stick together. This fun film is silly in all the right ways with a heart-warming message about self-discovery, friendship and embracing differences that is much needed in our world.

Now, I turn the keyboard over to my youngest son, Cade, so he can give you a kid’s perspective on this brand-new, family-friendly film.

Movie Reviewer: Cade, age 8

What is the movie, The Croods: A New Age, about?

The Croods have spent a long time surviving as a pack. Life has been hard and dangerous. In the new movie, they meet another family, The Bettermans. The two families have to learn to get along.

What ages do you think will enjoy The Croods: A New Age?

I think kids that are 4 to 12 years old would really like it but my parents like it too.

What was your favorite part? (Spoiler-free, we promise!)

There are a lot of jokes and I loved all of the comedy but my favorite part was when Gran thinks she has seen it all.

Did you learn anything from the movie?

I learned that you should follow some rules especially those that keep you safe but it is important to be yourself.

Would you recommend this movie to your friends?

Yes, it’s funny and entertaining. The ridiculous surprises and silly accidents will make kids laugh a lot. The movie has mystery and excitement all the way to the end. The new characters are really fun and creative.

Editor’s note: The film will be available on paid video on demand Friday, Dec. 18. 

The Croods: A New Age features the voice talent of returning stars Nicolas Cage as Grug Crood, Catherine Keener as Ugga Crood, Emma Stone as their daughter, Eep; Ryan Reynolds as Eep’s boyfriend, Guy; Clark Duke as Thunk and Cloris Leachman as Gran. They’re joined by new stars Peter Dinklage as Phil Betterman, Leslie Mann as Hope Betterman, and Kelly Marie Tran as their daughter, Dawn.

The film is directed by Joel Crawford, who has worked on multiple DreamWorks Animation films, including Trolls and the Kung Fu Panda franchise, and is produced by Mark Swift (Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie, Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted).