Genre: Family | Comedy | Adventure
Directed by: Walt Becker
Starring: Jack Whitehall, Darby Camp, Kenan Thompson, Emily Elizabeth (voice: Millie Bobby Brown)
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Everyone’s favorite oversized pup is back! Clifford the Big Red Dog 2 (2025) builds on the heartfelt charm of the original film with a bigger, brighter, and bouncier adventure that delivers laughs, life lessons, and lovable chaos for audiences young and old.
Following the events of the first movie, young Emily Elizabeth (Darby Camp) is now fully settled into life in New York City with her gigantic red companion, Clifford. When Clifford is invited to appear at a prestigious pet showcase in Central Park, the duo embarks on a whirlwind media frenzy.
But things take a turn when a tech-savvy startup—PawTech—tries to clone Clifford’s DNA, believing they can profit from creating “perfect pets.” When the experiment backfires and creates a mischievous rival clone named “Cliff,” the city is thrown into adorable disarray. It’s up to Emily, her quirky Uncle Casey (Jack Whitehall), and their friends to save the day—and teach the world that being different is what makes you special.
Darby Camp once again delivers a sincere, grounded performance as Emily, effortlessly balancing humor and emotion. Jack Whitehall is in top comedic form, leaning into slapstick and heart with charming energy.
Millie Bobby Brown (voice of Clifford) gives the big red dog more personality than ever before, adding warmth, wit, and surprisingly touching moments. Supporting roles by Kenan Thompson and Rosie Perez bring extra flair and fun.
The CGI has noticeably improved since the first installment. Clifford looks smoother, more expressive, and blends better into live-action settings. His fur, facial movements, and physical comedy are vibrant and believable—especially during chase scenes and tender moments.
The new character “Cliff,” the mischievous clone, adds a fun twist with exaggerated expressions and contrasting behavior.
Like its predecessor, Clifford 2 delivers wholesome, family-friendly themes:
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Embrace your uniqueness
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Value friendship and loyalty
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Beware of tech obsession and commercialization
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Big hearts matter more than big appearances
It’s a story with emotional depth, but one that keeps the laughs coming for its young audience.
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Bigger-scale storytelling while staying heartfelt
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Clifford’s personality shines more through voice work
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Fun mix of city adventure, comedy, and mild peril
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Messages about kindness and self-worth hit home
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Great balance of humor for both kids and adults
The plot is predictable at times
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Some jokes feel repetitive or too on-the-nose
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Side characters could’ve used more screen time
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May feel formulaic to adults not invested in the franchise
Clifford the Big Red Dog 2 is a delightful sequel that plays it safe but delivers where it counts: fun, heart, and Clifford-sized charm. Kids will adore the lovable chaos, while parents can appreciate its gentle message and warm humor. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s exactly what families need—a big red dog with a bigger heart.
