I always like to take a precocious child or two with me when I review animated films, because no matter how much I love or loathe the script, animation, music, etc., in the end, all that matters is whether it can capture the heart of a child. And my Finding Dory review will assure you that Pixar’s latest checks all the right boxes — mine as well as the kids’.

We come to expect breathtaking animation from Pixar, but Dory’s ocean goes above and beyond. You actually feel as if you’re underwater. I noticed the kids I was with, four-year-old twins and a savvy six-year-old, swaying with the tides. The colors are brilliant without being garish, and the textures are so real you can almost feel them.

The simplicity of the plot makes it easy for the wee ones to follow, but adults will enjoy the multi-level fact that Nemo and his dad are not the only ones trying to find Dory — she’s trying to find herself. Another important aspect of the plot is that Dory, whose memory is impaired, is also trying to find her long lost parents, which bring us to one of the most tender endings I’ve seen in some time. The kids and the adults in my party were sniffling and wiping away a tear or two.

Another aspect of the film that the adults will appreciate is the flawless voice work. We all knew that Ellen DeGeneres as Dory would be perfect, but you’ll have a great time listening for favorites like Diane Keaton, Ed O’Neil, Eugene Levy, Albert Brooks, Ty Burrell, Idris Elba, Bill Hader and Kate McKinnon. I’m not going to tell you who plays what, because half the fun listening for them and discerning them for yourself.

Now even if you’re taking your little ones and you’re inclined to get to the theater late, make every effort to be there soon enough to see the animated short that precedes Dory. Piper, about a baby sandpiper getting his sea legs on the beach, could be Pixar’s most moving and visually stunning animated short yet.

1 Hour 40 Minutes

Rated: PG

Get times and tickets at Fandango.com.

FINDING DORY Review — Absolutely Adoryble!

by Lisa Johnson Mandell