Show Dogs
Show Dogs is a 2018 American live-action/animated buddy cop comedy film directed by Raja Gosnell, in which Max, a tough Rottweiler police dog voiced by Ludacris, partners with FBI agent Frank Martin, played by Will Arnett, to infiltrate the "Canine Games," a high-profile dog show, and dismantle an exotic animal smuggling operation led by a villainous poodle.[1][2] The film blends elements of undercover espionage parody with dog show satire, featuring anthropomorphic humor and celebrity voices including Natasha Lyonne, Jordin Sparks, and Stanley Tucci.[1] Released theatrically on May 18, 2018, by Global Road Entertainment, Show Dogs earned approximately $17.8 million domestically and $39.1 million worldwide, marking a modest financial return relative to its production scale but underperforming expectations for a family-targeted release.[2][3] Critics panned the movie for its formulaic script, uneven tone, and reliance on lowbrow gags, resulting in a 16% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on aggregated reviews decrying it as "insufferable" and lacking originality even within the genre.[2][4] The film gained notoriety shortly after release due to backlash over scenes portraying routine dog show genital inspections, where Max is coached to "relax" and mentally escape to a "happy place" without resisting touch, prompting accusations from groups like the National Center on Sexual Exploitation that it inadvertently groomed young audiences to tolerate inappropriate physical contact.[5][6] In response, distributor Global Road edited out the most contentious elements, including dialogue implying enjoyment, and re-released revised prints to theaters amid calls for boycotts and screenings being pulled by some chains.[7][8] This episode highlighted tensions between comedic intent rooted in real dog show practices and post-#MeToo sensitivities regarding consent and boundary education for children.[5][6]Story and Characters
Plot Summary
Max, a rugged Rottweiler serving as a K-9 police dog with the New York Police Department, leads a botched operation to rescue a kidnapped baby panda from an international animal smuggling ring, resulting in the panda's recapture by the criminals.[2] [9] To recover the panda, Max is reluctantly paired with FBI agent Frank Martin, whose unorthodox methods clash with Max's solitary style.[1] [4] A critical lead points to the smugglers planning to auction the panda at the exclusive Canine Games, an international dog show held in Las Vegas. Max enters the competition undercover as a primped show dog, with Frank posing as his handler, requiring Max to master the refined behaviors, grooming standards, and judging criteria of the show world—far removed from his street-tough instincts.[2] [10] [9] Throughout the event, Max interacts with eccentric canine competitors and handlers, gathering intelligence on the smugglers while advancing in the pageant rounds, which test agility, conformation, and performance. Tensions escalate as Max confronts corrupt insiders and rival entrants tied to the ring, forcing him and Frank to balance their cover with urgent action to prevent the panda's sale and dismantle the operation.[1] [4]Voice Cast and Character Descriptions
The animated film Show Dogs employs a voice cast comprising actors, comedians, and musicians to portray its ensemble of anthropomorphic dogs and human agents. Principal characters include the rugged K-9 officer Max and his FBI handler Frank, central to the undercover operation at the Westminster Dog Show-inspired event. Supporting roles feature various show dogs and avian sidekicks, contributing to the film's comedic espionage narrative.[1]| Character | Voice Actor | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Max | Ludacris (Chris Bridges) | A macho, solitary Rottweiler police dog assigned to go undercover as a primped show dog to rescue a kidnapped panda cub.[1] |
| Frank | Will Arnett | Max's human partner, an FBI agent inexperienced with dogs who must learn to collaborate during the mission.[11][12] |
| Daisy | Jordin Sparks | An energetic Australian Shepherd competing in the dog show and developing a romantic interest in Max.[4][11] |
| Philippe | Stanley Tucci | A sophisticated Standard Poodle and veteran show dog who aids Max in navigating the competition's etiquette.[12] |
| Sprinkles | Gabriel Iglesias | A diminutive, enthusiastic Pomeranian or similar small breed participating in the show events.[13][12] |
| Persephone | RuPaul | A flamboyant Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless dog) known for her dramatic personality in the pageant.[1] |