Pets on a Train (PG)

Animals, chaos and a runaway locomotive power this bright, good-natured caper that blends slapstick comedy with heist-movie energy and a dash of heartfelt adventure.

When a crew of animal bandits accidentally find themselves caught up in a high-speed train robbery, unlikely allies Falcon, a streetwise raccoon, and Rex, a by-the-book police dog, must work together to stop Hans, a vengeful badger with a grudge. Cue frantic chases, near-misses, and more fur flying than in a grooming salon as the train hurtles toward certain disaster.

The animation is colourful and zippy, full of kinetic energy and small visual gags that keep younger viewers engaged throughout. The English-language voice cast, including Marc Weiner and Lisa Ortiz, brings plenty of warmth and bounce to the lively script. It’s hardly Pixar-level storytelling, but younger audiences will lap up the cheerful chaos, while parents can appreciate its brisk pacing, gentle humour and lack of cynicism.

Playful and undemanding, Pets on a Train doesn’t reinvent the tracks, but it’s a lively, big-hearted ride that stays just the right side of the rails.