The essential idea in The Secret Life of Pets is to bring to life Gary Larson’s Far Side genius. This exercise is like trying to chase your cat while she is chasing a squirrel up a tree. Larson’s humanization of animals is one-of-kind. But, by all means, give it a go. The effort might be futile but it will probably be funny.

In Pets, our hunches about our furry friends are cleverly given confirmation. Buddy, the dachshund, and his a hilarious take on the ChuckIt! toy and the group’s impression of their hipster dog-walker were particularly memorable. Unfortunately, quirky pet antics do not make a movie and an underground of discarded pets was flushed, and somewhat forced, out. To compound matters, the post-production team for Pets had to gulp when Shaun the Sheep was released with an animal control narrative containing more thought, humor and originality.

This film is a good try. Kevin Hart as the bunny leader of the discarded pets was hilarious. To enter this realm, however, perfection is the password. I’ll flip on Tom & Jerry and be very happy. Pets chases its tail a bit but catches up to a respectable 3.1 napkins out of 5.