PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie upgrades its titular characters’ abilities, turning them into superheroes in an animated story that is sure to please its target audience. The sequel to PAW Patrol: The Movie, both of which are based on the 2013 series from Keith Chapman and Scott Kraft, is sweet and charming, if a bit humdrum. Its lessons are bare bones but relatable, with the kiddos easily able to take everything in without being overwhelmed, especially if they’re already familiar with the characters. The film offers some cute character interactions, humor (that don’t always land), a funny villain, and a story that is enough to have you rooting for the heroes, and Skye in particular.

PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie follows the titular characters — pups who protect the city from pretty much anything you can think of. Led by Ryder (Finn Lee-Epp), the PAW Patrol gets a boost from meteor crystals after the “mad” scientist Victoria Vance (Taraji P. Henson) uses magnetism to pull meteors to Adventure Bay in a bid to give herself superpowers. When Skye (Mckenna Grace) discovers the crystals bestow superpowers, she’s excited because it might actually mean that she’ll no longer be considered the smallest and weakest of the group — it’s something she feels insecure about due to having always been left out in her past. With Skye attempting to prove herself all the while, the PAW Patrol must work together to stop Victoria and former mayor Humdinger (Ron Pardo) before they destroy the city with their new powers.

PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie turning its focus to Skye gives the story a more personal slant, as it gives us her backstory as a runt, which drives the narrative forward and gives the sequel its emotional payoff. It’s not dissimilar to how the first film focused on Chase (Christian Convery), and this approach keeps the story centered while still giving plenty of opportunities for the other pups to shine. Skye’s story grounds the film and has us rooting for her to succeed throughout — hers is an underdog story that helps ramp up the tension as the PAW Patrol fights to save the city from the antagonists. It’s also the most heartfelt the film gets when it comes to the characters, whose interactions are fun but generally lackluster and surface-level.

Henson is having the best time as Victoria Vance, though, which elevates the memorability of her character. The actress nails the theatricality of Victoria (complete with an evil laugh) and her over-the-top plans, and she’s easily the best part of the film. Grace is also a standout as Skye, playing the character with a vulnerability that is laced with determination. The lessons throughout the film are also great for kids, as they stress the importance of teamwork, safety, working hard and overcoming obstacles to help others.

At times, the film’s dialogue underscores the by-the-numbers story, and the comedic timing is subpar at best, leaving the somewhat corny jokes hanging in the air awkwardly. But that doesn’t deter the film or its overall story; it’s still warm and decently fun. To that end, it succeeds in what it aims to be — an engaging animation that kids will enjoy. Though the pacing of the film lulls a bit, director Cal Brunker and co-writer Bob Barlen keep things going with some light adventure.

While PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie won’t leave a lasting impression, nor does it have much depth or comedy, it does have its merits. Kids will be pulled into the story and the characters have just enough personality to hold their attention.

PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie is now playing in theaters. The film is 92 minutes long and rated PG for mild action/peril.