This is a scene from the animated movie "Scoob!" The Catholic News Service classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents.(CNS/Warner Bros.)

By Catholic News Service

Bland animated addition to the Scooby-Doo franchise that began as a Saturday morning TV show in 1969.

Opening with an origins story of the bond between a future laid-back beatnik (voice of Will Forte) and his faithful dog (voice of Frank Welker), director Tony Cervone’s adventure then jumps forward a decade to the battle between the Mystery, Inc. gang to which the duo belongs — its other members voiced by Gina Rodriguez, Zac Efron and Amanda Seyfried — and a villain (voice of Jason Isaacs) who wants to kidnap the titular canine because of the supernatural power he possesses as a descendant of Alexander the Great’s pet pooch. The ensemble is aided by an aspiring superhero (voice of Mark Wahlberg), his brainy sidekick (voice of Kiersey Clemons) and a mechanical pup (voice of Ken Jeong).

While it salutes unity, loyal friendship, courage and self-sacrifice, this passable feature fails to make much of an impression. Too frightening for little kids, it’s acceptable for most others.

Much peril, mature wordplay, a single crass term, brief scatological humor. The Catholic News Service classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

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