Finding Dory Review: 7 Ups And 3 Downs

3. It's Just A Little Too Familiar

Despite the success of the brand, it's a little frustrating that we didn't get a little more innovation. At times Dory feels a little like it's been made by a focus group who openly loved the first movie. Yes, all of the bits that we loved about the first one: heart, adventurous set-pieces, colourful characters and familial exploration and identity are there, but beyond that, there's nothing particularly new.

Marlin is replaced by Hank, Dory is Nemo, the dentist's office is the Institute and the band of characters who help them get to their reunion are transferred characters. Perhaps it's a conscious attempt to comment on Dory's own mental condition (in which case, kudos), but even something slightly braver like killing off one of Dory's parents (or both, if you want to destroy the entire audience) would have added a whole new dynamic.

After all, Toy Story 3 was forced to deal with the biggest issue that haunted the other two - the permanent loss of Andy - and it soared because of it. Perhaps Dory just needed the added boost of a more difficult ending?