Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie is a magical journey of imagination and growing up
FILM REVIEW
Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie
3.5 out of 4 stars
Rudy Segovia
Headliner Chicago
Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie
3.5 out of 4 stars
Rudy Segovia
Headliner Chicago
photo courtesy of Dreamworks Pictures
Gabby’s Dollhouse has been a beloved staple for young fans for years, capturing their imaginations with its colorful characters and whimsical world. Now Gabby is making her big screen debut in both a live-action and animated film. The movie, much like its source material, is an explosion of creativity, bursting with vibrant visuals and an endless supply of fun, aimed at young viewers. The film is a treat for kids and fans of the show to see their hero on a big screen over the usual television screen or mobile device.
In the movie, Gabby, along with her trusty sidekicks make a visit to her Grandma’s house played by Gloria Estefan. While Gabby and her Grandma Gigi are inside the house, Gabby’s dollhouse gets loose and sends her Baby Box, Cakey Cat and the rest of the gang on an adventure and into the hands of our villain Vera played by Kristen Wiig. In signature Gabby’s Dollhouse style of problem-solving, teamwork, and a lot of singing and dancing along the way, there’s a mission to learn about playtime, friendship and what it means to grow up.
In the movie, Gabby, along with her trusty sidekicks make a visit to her Grandma’s house played by Gloria Estefan. While Gabby and her Grandma Gigi are inside the house, Gabby’s dollhouse gets loose and sends her Baby Box, Cakey Cat and the rest of the gang on an adventure and into the hands of our villain Vera played by Kristen Wiig. In signature Gabby’s Dollhouse style of problem-solving, teamwork, and a lot of singing and dancing along the way, there’s a mission to learn about playtime, friendship and what it means to grow up.
photo courtesy of Dreamworks Pictures
There are a few core messages around the films and excellent discussion with kids after. As kids grow up, the transition from "must-see" show and treasured toys to more mature interests often raises questions. It’s a tricky thing to explain to kids that there are shows they may love now but outgrow next year, and others they may find a deeper connection to in different ways as they age. Think of trying to explain Disney Adults to the younger generations, that some treasured childhood activities may hold a time and place and others may continue. In the Gabby’s Dollhouse movie, we get a glimpse of these growing pains, as Gabby herself navigates some of these emotions. For older kids and tweens watching, Gabby’s journey might hit a little closer to home, as they wrestle with the changes in what they enjoy. However, parents should be aware that while the movie is generally lighthearted, there are a few moments where Gabby is genuinely sad. These scenes might be a bit heartbreaking for younger viewers (ages 4-6), who are used to seeing her upbeat and cheerful. It could be a good idea to prepare for those emotional moments with a little conversation afterward.If your kids are already fans of the series, they’ll likely love the chance to see Gabby’s colorful world on the big screen.
Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie
opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, September 26
opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, September 26