DreamWorks Animation is set to release its latest animated feature, Dog Man, on January 31, 2025. Based on Dav Pilkey’s beloved graphic novel series, this film adaptation brings the humorous and heartfelt adventures of the titular character to the big screen.
Premise
Dog Man follows the story of a human police officer named Knight and his loyal dog, Greg. After both are injured in the line of duty, an experimental surgery fuses them into a single being: Dog Man. Embodying the strengths of both man and canine, Dog Man is dedicated to upholding justice. His primary adversary is Petey the Cat, a cunning feline with nefarious plans. The dynamic shifts with the unexpected arrival of Li’l Petey, adding layers of complexity to their relationship.
Voice Cast
The film boasts a talented ensemble cast:
- Pete Davidson as Petey the Cat: The primary antagonist, a scheming feline with a penchant for trouble.
- Lil Rel Howery as the Chief: Dog Man’s superior, overseeing his adventures and misadventures.
- Isla Fisher in an undisclosed role: Details about her character remain under wraps, adding to the anticipation.
- Poppy Liu, Stephen Root, Billy Boyd, and Ricky Gervais: Each lending their voices to bring various characters to life, contributing to the film’s rich narrative tapestry.
Director Peter Hastings also provides the vocal effects for Dog Man, capturing the unique blend of human and canine traits that define the character.
Production and Development
The journey to adapt Dog Man for the big screen began in December 2020 when DreamWorks Animation announced the project, with Peter Hastings at the helm. Hastings, known for his work on The Epic Tales of Captain Underpants, brought his expertise to the project, ensuring a faithful yet fresh adaptation of Pilkey’s work. Karen Foster joined as a producer in January 2024, solidifying the film’s creative team.
Music
The film’s score is composed by Tom Howe, aiming to complement the narrative’s blend of action, humor, and heart.
Marketing and Merchandise
In May 2024, a partnership with Jakks Pacific and its costume division, Disguise, was announced to produce merchandise based on the Dog Man film and the original comic series. Additionally, a book featuring the film’s art was released on December 10, 2024, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the animation process. The official trailer, released on September 17, 2024, provided audiences with a glimpse into the film’s vibrant animation and engaging storyline.
Release and Distribution
Dog Man premiered at the Festival de l’Alpe d’Huez in France on January 15, 2025, receiving early acclaim for its faithful adaptation and humor. The film is scheduled for a wide theatrical release in the United States on January 31, 2025. Following its theatrical run, as part of Universal’s distribution strategy, Dog Man will stream on Peacock for the first four months of the pay-TV window, then move to Netflix for the subsequent ten months, before returning to Peacock.
Budget
While specific budget details have not been officially disclosed, DreamWorks Animation’s involvement suggests a significant investment, aligning with the studio’s history of high-quality animated productions.
Anticipation
With a compelling storyline, a stellar voice cast, and the backing of a renowned animation studio, Dog Man is poised to be a standout release in 2025. Fans of the original graphic novels and newcomers alike can look forward to a film that captures the essence of Pilkey’s creation while offering fresh and entertaining content for audiences of all ages.
