The Boss Baby franchise returned with its charming sequel, The Boss Baby: Family Business. This DreamWorks animated film blends humor, heart, and action in a visually stunning package that explores the bonds of family. Released on July 2, 2021, in theaters and on Peacock streaming, the movie continues the adventures of Ted and Tim as they face a new mission led by a fresh boss baby. But is this movie safe for kids? Let’s dive into this comprehensive review to guide parents on what to expect.
The Visuals in The Boss Baby: Family Business
Animation Excellence
DreamWorks doesn’t disappoint with its stunning 3D animation. The Boss Baby: Family Business brings vibrant visuals, dynamic character designs, and imaginative sequences that captivate viewers of all ages. The Boss Baby sequel elevates its animation quality compared to the original film, offering smoother movements and more intricate details.
Creative Sequences
The movie includes surreal, dream-like sequences—imagine colorful explosions of action that feel straight out of a child’s imagination. For example, one standout scene involves a mission in a school for gifted kids, where animation blends reality with exaggerated, cartoonish elements to amplify the fun.
Colorful Characters
The updated designs of Tim and Ted, now adults, highlight their personality growth. New characters like Tina (the newest Boss Baby) and Dr. Armstrong, the quirky antagonist, are crafted to visually stand out. However, Dr. Armstrong’s design may veer into nightmare territory for very young kids, adding a mildly creepy edge.
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The Storyline
Plot Overview
The story picks up with Tim and Ted, now grown-ups leading separate lives. Tim is a stay-at-home dad, while Ted is a successful businessman. Their paths collide when Tina, Tim’s youngest daughter and a boss baby herself, recruits them to stop Dr. Armstrong’s secret plans at his high-tech school for gifted children.
The movie delves into themes of family bonds, teamwork, and personal growth, all wrapped in an adventurous and comedic package. It’s a relatable tale for both kids and parents, emphasizing how families can overcome differences.
Key Themes
- Sibling Rivalry and Reconnection: Tim and Ted’s relationship drives the story. Despite their differences, their love for family unites them.
- Parent-Child Dynamics: Tim’s struggle to connect with his daughters mirrors many real-life challenges faced by parents.
- Work-Life Balance: Ted’s transformation from a workaholic to a caring uncle showcases the importance of balancing priorities.
Understanding the PG Rating
Why PG?
The Boss Baby sequel is rated PG for mild language, rude humor, and animated action sequences. Here’s a breakdown:
| Category | Examples |
| Language in Children’s Movies | Mild insults like “butthead” and “idiot.” |
| Violence in Boss Baby | Cartoonish chases, falls, and exaggerated peril with no real harm shown. |
| Crude Humor in Movies | Butt jokes, mild disobedience, and silly antics appeal to kids but may annoy adults. |
| Mild Horror References | Dr. Armstrong’s eerie demeanor might unsettle younger children. |
What Age is The Boss Baby: Family Business Recommended For?
Movie Age Recommendation
This PG-rated film for kids is most suitable for children aged 6 and older. Here’s why:
- For Younger Kids (4-5 years):
- The fast-paced storytelling and layered humor might be hard to follow.
- Potentially frightening scenes involving Dr. Armstrong could be unsettling.
- For Older Kids (6+):
- They’ll enjoy the humor, action, and heartwarming family themes.
- The movie’s pace and storyline complexity align with their attention span.
Parental Concerns
- Mild Violence: Animated fights and exaggerated action scenes dominate but never escalate to gory violence.
- Language: The inclusion of terms like “moron” and “butthead” might require parental guidance.
- Mature Themes: Light nods to adult themes like sibling jealousy and forgiveness.
The Boss Baby: Family Business Compared to Other Animated Films
How Does It Stand Out?
- Boss Baby Comparisons:
- This sequel introduces more fantastical and adventurous elements than the original, upping the stakes for both kids and parents.
- Humor feels slightly more targeted at parents this time, with jokes that require life experience to fully appreciate.
- Against Similar Movies:
- Versus Minions and Despicable Me: While it shares slapstick humor, The Boss Baby sequel focuses more on emotional depth.
- Versus Dora the Explorer: Both feature adventure but cater to slightly different age groups, with Dora appealing more to preschoolers.
Highlights of the Movie’s Overall Impact
Strengths
- Visual Brilliance: The colorful, detailed animation immerses viewers in the story.
- Family Bond Theme: A heartfelt reminder of the power of teamwork and love.
- Action Scenes: Fast-paced and exciting without veering into overly intense territory.
Weaknesses
- Overstuffed plotlines might overwhelm younger audiences.
- Humor occasionally relies too heavily on crude jokes and butt nudity for laughs.
The Verdict: Is The Boss Baby: Family Business Safe for Kids?
Yes, The Boss Baby: Family Business is generally safe for kids aged 6 and up. While younger children might find some scenes intense or confusing, the film offers a delightful mix of humor, action, and heartwarming themes for a family movie night.
| Category | Assessment |
| Kid-Friendly Animation | Bright visuals and imaginative design. |
| PG Rating Concerns | Mild violence, language, and crude humor. |
| Family Appeal | Strong message about family bonds. |
Where to Watch The Boss Baby: Family Business
The movie is available on Peacock streaming and can be rented or purchased digitally. It’s a perfect addition to your next family movie night.
Conclusion
DreamWorks delivers another entertaining adventure with The Boss Baby: Family Business. From its vibrant animation visuals to its heartfelt message, it’s a solid choice for families looking for lighthearted fun. While the humor and themes may not land perfectly for all viewers, the movie succeeds in bringing families together, making it a worthy sequel to the Boss Baby franchise.
So, gather your loved ones, grab some popcorn, and enjoy this family-friendly film that’s sure to bring laughter and smiles.
Tina Grey is an experienced blogger with a passion for uncovering the best in film. With years of writing and a keen eye for detail, Tina brings insightful reviews and engaging content to Parentzia. Her deep love for movies, combined with her expertise, helps readers discover must-watch films across genres. When she’s not reviewing, Tina enjoys exploring new cinematic trends and sharing her love of film with her audience.
