At The Movies

Garfield’s Pet Force Runtime: 76 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: September 22, 2009 Studio: The Animation Picture Company Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 3rd fully animated direct-to-video movie Total Runtime: 1 hour 16 minutes Tagline: Garfield and friends save the universe… one paw at a time. Ratings My rating: 6.0/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 50% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary In this action-packed animated adventure, Garfield and his friends transform into superheroes known as the Pet Force to battle an evil villain threatening their world. Critics Review The movie received mixed reviews, with some praising its fun action and humor, while others found the storyline predictable. Christian Perspective The themes of teamwork, courage, and doing what’s right align well with Christian values. Family Friendliness Suitable for children, offering entertaining action and positive messages.

Garfield’s Fun Fest Runtime: 80 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: September 9, 2008 Studio: The Animation Picture Company Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 2nd fully animated direct-to-video movie Total Runtime: 1 hour 20 minutes Tagline: Garfield’s ready for fun... and maybe a little trouble. Ratings My rating: 6.2/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 53% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield and his friends compete in the annual Fun Fest, where Garfield must prove his worth and learn the importance of friendship and teamwork amid comedic adventures. Critics Review The movie was met with mixed reviews, praised for its humor but criticized for a formulaic plot. Christian Perspective The film highlights positive themes like friendship, perseverance, and humility, consistent with Christian family values. Family Friendliness Appropriate for children, offering light-hearted humor and moral lessons.

Garfield Gets Real Runtime: 72 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: September 25, 2007 Studio: The Animation Picture Company Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 1st fully animated direct-to-video movie Total Runtime: 1 hour 12 minutes Tagline: Garfield takes a walk on the wild side... in the real world. Ratings My rating: 6.1/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 54% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary In this fully animated direct-to-video film, Garfield escapes from his comic strip world to the real world, where he must adapt and overcome various challenges while trying to find his way back home. Critics Review The film received mixed reviews, with some praising its humor and animation style, but others felt the plot was thin and predictable. Christian Perspective The story promotes themes of courage, self-discovery, and friendship, which align well with Christian values. Family Friendliness Suitable for children with mild humor and posit...

Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties Runtime: 82 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: June 16, 2006 Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 2nd live-action/CGI movie Total Runtime: 1 hour 22 minutes Tagline: Two cats, two kingdoms, one hilarious adventure. Ratings My rating: 6.3/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 51% Rotten Tomatoes rating: 12% Metacritic rating: 38% Plot Summary Garfield travels to England where he’s mistaken for a royal cat and thrown into a hilarious adventure filled with mistaken identities, royal intrigues, and classic Garfield sarcasm. Critics Review Generally seen as weaker than the first movie, the film received criticism for plot predictability but enjoyed for its humor and lighthearted fun. Christian Perspective Maintains positive messages about kindness, friendship, and humility, fitting for family viewing. Family Friendliness Safe for children with light humor and no objectionable content.

Garfield: The Movie Runtime: 80 minutes Rating: PG Release Date: June 11, 2004 Studio: 20th Century Fox Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 1st live-action/CGI movie Total Runtime: 1 hour 20 minutes Tagline: Life’s too short to be serious all the time. Ratings My rating: 6.5/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 54% Rotten Tomatoes rating: 22% Metacritic rating: 37% Plot Summary A live-action/CGI hybrid film where Garfield the cat battles for attention and love from his owner Jon and his new dog friend, Odie. The movie follows Garfield's adventures in and out of the house, delivering slapstick humor and family-friendly fun. Critics Review Mixed reviews criticized the CGI effects and thin plot but praised the humor and Jim Davis’s beloved characters coming to life. Christian Perspective The film promotes friendship, forgiveness, and loyalty themes aligning well with Christian family values. Family Friendliness Suitable for children with mild cartoonish humor an...

The Garfield Show Runtime: 5896 minutes Rating: TV-G Release Dates: November 2, 2009 – December 2016 Studio: Paws, Inc. / Dargaud Media Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 2nd animated TV series Total Runtime: 98 hours 16 minutes Tagline: Garfield returns in a modern CGI adventure. Ratings My rating: 6.7/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 67% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary A CGI series featuring Garfield’s classic laziness and wit with updated animation. The show follows his daily antics alongside Jon, Odie, and other familiar characters. Critics Review Reception is mixed, with praise for humor but criticism of animation style changes. Christian Perspective Maintains positive messages about friendship, humor, and responsibility consistent with family values. Family Friendliness Appropriate for children and families.

Garfield and Friends Runtime: 3267 minutes Rating: TV-G Release Dates: September 17, 1988 – December 10, 1994 Studio: Film Roman / Paws, Inc. Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 1st animated TV series Total Runtime of series: 54 hours 27 minutes Tagline: Double the fun—Garfield meets U.S. Acres in one show. Ratings My rating: 7.3/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 73% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary This series combines adventures of Garfield with characters from Jim Davis’s "U.S. Acres." It features slapstick humor, parodies, and a variety of comedic sketches appealing to all ages. Critics Review Although reception was mixed at first, it is now fondly remembered for sharp writing and entertaining animation. Christian Perspective Themes include friendship, responsibility, and kindness, consistent with wholesome family values. Family Friendliness Safe and enjoyable for children and nostalgic adults.

Garfield Gets a Life Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: May 8, 1991 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 12th TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: Garfield embarks on new adventures. Ratings My rating: 6.6/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 66% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield tries to find new excitement and meaning in life, leading to humorous situations and classic antics. Critics Review Received as a solid final special in the series, though less memorable than earlier efforts. Christian Perspective Encourages growth, new experiences, and self-discovery, consistent with Christian life values. Family Friendliness Safe and family-friendly.

Garfield’s Feline Fantasies Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: May 18, 1990 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 11th TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: Garfield’s wildest dreams come to life. Ratings My rating: 6.9/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 69% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary A whimsical collection of Garfield’s imaginative daydreams and fantasies filled with humor and absurdity. Critics Review Enjoyed for its creativity and humor, though less acclaimed than earlier specials. Christian Perspective Promotes imagination and creativity within healthy bounds. Family Friendliness Appropriate for kids and family viewing.

Garfield’s Thanksgiving Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: November 22, 1989 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 10th TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: Garfield learns the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Ratings My rating: 7.9/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 79% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield, Jon, and Odie celebrate Thanksgiving, with Garfield learning lessons on gratitude and togetherness. Critics Review Well-received for warmth and humor, a beloved holiday special. Christian Perspective Strong emphasis on gratitude and family aligns perfectly with Christian teachings. Family Friendliness Wholesome and family-appropriate.

Garfield’s Babes and Bullets Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: May 23, 1989 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 9th TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: A detective adventure with Garfield. Ratings My rating: 7.2/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 72% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield plays a detective in this noir-style mystery special, combining humor and a playful homage to classic detective tales. Critics Review Winner of an Emmy for Outstanding Animated Program, praised for style and wit. Christian Perspective Explores themes of truth and justice with humor, consistent with Christian values. Family Friendliness Clean and suitable for all ages

Garfield: His 9 Lives Runtime: 48 minutes Rating: G Release Date: November 22, 1988 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 8th TV special Runtime in minutes: 48 Tagline: Nine tales of Garfield’s many lives. Ratings My rating: 7.6/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 75% Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary An anthology of nine different stories exploring various aspects of Garfield’s life and personality, ranging from kittenhood to imagined futures. Critics Review Noted for its creativity and insightful look into Garfield’s character, this special received critical praise. Christian Perspective Encourages reflection and learning through life stages, consistent with Christian ideas of growth and redemption. Family Friendliness Suitable for family viewing.

A Garfield Christmas Special Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: December 21, 1987 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 7th TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: A holiday filled with warmth and family. Ratings My rating: 8.4/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: N/A Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield and Jon visit Jon’s family for Christmas. Garfield experiences the true spirit of the holiday through acts of generosity, love, and family unity. Critics Review Widely regarded as one of the best Christmas specials, praised for warmth and heartfelt story. Christian Perspective Strongly aligned with Christian values about family, charity, and gratitude. Family Friendliness Perfect family viewing for the Christmas season.

Garfield Goes Hollywood Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: May 8, 1987 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 6th TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: Garfield dreams of fame in Hollywood. Ratings My rating: 6.9/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: N/A Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield imagines himself as a famous Hollywood star, leading to humorous escapades and satire about fame and celebrity culture. Critics Review Praised for its humor and light satire, though less memorable than earlier specials. Christian Perspective Provides a subtle reminder about humility and being content with one’s place in life. Family Friendliness Clean and suitable for all ages.

Garfield in Paradise Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: May 27, 1986 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 5th TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: Garfield escapes to an island getaway. Ratings My rating: 7.3/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: N/A Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield wins a trip to a tropical island but soon faces jungle antics and challenges, leading to lots of laughs and a little adventure. Critics Review Appreciated for its fun tone and animation, this special keeps the Garfield charm alive. Christian Perspective Celebrates appreciation for God’s creation and perseverance in unexpected situations. Family Friendliness Appropriate for all ages with no objectionable content.

Garfield’s Halloween Adventure Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: October 30, 1985 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 4th TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: A spooky night filled with fun and fright. Ratings My rating: 7.8/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: N/A Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield and Odie experience a fun and mildly spooky Halloween adventure filled with ghosts and ghouls, balancing humor with light suspense appropriate for kids. Critics Review The special is a seasonal favorite, noted for its music and entertaining Halloween theme. Christian Perspective Though supernatural themes appear, they are portrayed in a playful, non-threatening way, with underlying messages of courage and friendship. Family Friendliness Suitable for family viewing with mild spooky elements.

Garfield in the Rough Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: October 26, 1984 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 3rd TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: A wild vacation full of laughs. Ratings My rating: 7.4/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: N/A Rotten Tomatoes rating: N/A Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary Garfield and Jon go camping in this humorous special where Garfield’s laziness clashes with outdoor adventures. Amid encounters with wildlife and nature mishaps, Garfield learns teamwork and friendship. Critics Review The special was well-received for its humor and lighthearted storytelling, maintaining Garfield’s charm. Christian Perspective The show promotes friendship, cooperation, and enjoying God’s creation, which aligns well with Christian family values. Family Friendliness Clean, funny, and safe for all ages.

Garfield on the Town Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: October 28, 1983 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 2nd TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: A city adventure leads Garfield home. Ratings My rating: 8.2/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 82% Rotten Tomatoes rating: 82% Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary In this Emmy-winning special, Garfield finds himself lost in the city where he meets his birth mother and gains a deeper understanding of his origins before returning to Jon’s loving home. The special explores themes of family and belonging. Critics Review Critics praised the emotional depth and storytelling, calling it one of the best Garfield specials ever made. Christian Perspective Themes of family love, homecoming, and identity resonate with biblical teachings about belonging and God’s care for His children. Family Friendliness Safe and heartfelt, suitable for family viewing of all ages.

Here Comes Garfield Runtime: 24 minutes Rating: G Release Date: October 25, 1982 Studio: Mendelson/Melendez Productions Franchise: Garfield Franchise Position: 1st TV special Runtime in minutes: 24 Tagline: Meet the cool cat who started it all. Ratings My rating: 7.9/10 Dove Foundation rating: Family Approved IMDb rating: 88% Rotten Tomatoes rating: 88% Metacritic rating: N/A Plot Summary This special introduces Garfield, the lazy, lasagna-loving orange cat. The story follows Garfield and his dog friend Odie through amusing and heartwarming scenes that establish Garfield’s mischievous personality and his relationship with Jon Arbuckle. It also includes Garfield rescuing Odie from the pound and other classic comic-strip-style antics. Critics Review Critics praised the animation style and Lorenzo Music’s iconic voice performance as Garfield. The special was nominated for two Emmy Awards and became a beloved introduction to the character. Christian Perspective While the show has no explic...