Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

Look, we all have those moments when we need to park the kids in front of something safe while we make dinner or take a work call. Beverly Hills Chihuahua 3 is technically that thing—it's harmless, it won't give anyone nightmares, and it has a nice message about self-esteem buried somewhere in there.

But let's be real: this is a third direct-to-video sequel that scored 4.4/10 on IMDb and 2.5/5 on Letterboxd. Even by kids' movie standards, that's rough. The talking dogs schtick was already tired by movie two, and this one just phones it in harder.

If your 4-year-old specifically requests it because they saw it on Disney+, fine. But there are dozens of better options that are just as safe and actually, you know, entertaining. Even Bluey episodes have more heart and creativity packed into 7 minutes than this entire 90-minute slog.

The WISE score reflects reality: it's safe and somewhat wholesome, but it's also creatively bankrupt and barely enriching. Not harmful, just... why bother?

Age Fit

Technically appropriate for ages 4-7, but honestly, even within that range you're rolling the dice on whether they'll stay engaged. The poor ratings suggest this is more 'background noise while kids play with toys' than 'movie they'll actually watch.'

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

72

The film centers on themes of family, belonging, and self-worth as the smallest pup Rosa learns she's special. Models supportive family dynamics and encouragement. Tone is gentle and age-appropriate for young children. However, as a third direct-to-video sequel, the execution is predictable and formulaic rather than genuinely heartwarming.

Imaginative

28

This is the third installment of talking-dog sequels with minimal creative ambition. The premise (chihuahuas at a hotel) offers little originality or wonder. No invitation to creative thinking or exploration—just a paint-by-numbers family film that recycles the franchise's basic formula. The low IMDb (4.4) and Letterboxd (2.5) ratings reflect audience recognition of its creative bankruptcy.

Safe

88

Common Sense Media rates it for age 4+, indicating very mild content. Direct-to-video Disney sequel with no concerning violence, scary scenes, or inappropriate content. Entirely predictable and conflict-light. Safe but also utterly sanitized to the point of being forgettable.

Enriching

35

Touches on self-esteem and finding your place in the family, which has some value for very young viewers. However, the 4.4 IMDb and 57% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes suggest the message is delivered in such a bland, uninspired way that it's unlikely to resonate or create lasting impact. More background noise than meaningful viewing experience.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Completely harmless content appropriate for even the youngest viewers (age 4+)
Themes about self-worth and finding your place in the family have some developmental value
Available on Disney+ for desperate moments when you need 90 minutes of peace
Talking dogs might entertain toddlers who haven't developed taste yet

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What to Watch For

The quality drop from direct-to-video production is noticeable—this isn't theatrical Disney
Extremely low ratings (4.4/10 on IMDb) mean even kids might tune out
Third sequel syndrome: recycled jokes, tired formula, zero creative spark
You'll be checking your phone within 15 minutes

Conversation Starters

"Rosa felt like she didn't fit in because she was small. Have you ever felt different from everyone else?"
"What makes someone special—is it how they look or what they can do?"
"Why do you think Papi wanted to help Rosa feel better about herself?"

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Beverly Hills Chihuahua 3: Viva la Fiesta!