When you think of modern-day Dreamwork and Disney cartoon movies, what likely comes to mind is a colorful, comedic movie with characters that make the audience laugh and feel throughout the trevails of the fun and harmless plot. Hitpig! is exactly what you’d expect. .

The main character, Hitpig, voiced by Jason Sudeikis, is a bounty hunter pig on a clear mission. He sets out to return an elephant named Pickles to the circus, but ends up finding himself in quite the adventurous conundrum while criss-crossing his cartoon world.

Unlike the musically-talented animals in “Sing,” Hitpig specializes in making omelets and hunting for animals. It starts with the tragic, yet humorous, death of his adopted mother, Big Bertha, from the claws of a crocodile. Before her tragic death, Big Bertha teaches Hitpig to return animals who have escaped from zoos and circuses. Hitpig decides to follow in his mother’s footsteps.

Hitpig’s greatest presumed enemy, Leticia dos Anjos, helps animals escape to their rightful homes instead of captivity. She also steals all of Hitpig’s cash to carry out her philanthropic efforts. After losing his money, Hitpig finds his next assignment, Pickles, who was released from her “home” in the circus by Leticia in hopes of returning the elephant to India. Pickles was initially abducted from India at a young age and taken to a circus by the Leapin’ Lord. Though he may be the villain in this story, the Leapin’ Lord (voiced by Rainn Wilson) was just influenced by his family for years, a common theme throughout the film.

After many wild adventures while trying to return Pickles, Hitpig is caught in his web of lies. When it is time to return Pickles, he regrets it, reflecting on the errors of his ways. He teams up with Leticia to save Pickles from a crazy owner’s circus performances in outer space. With a few extra friends to join them, Hitpig saves everyone from their demise.

This movie features a predictable plot, friendly and accessible for the younger viewer. At the last minute, it attempts to throw in the lesson that “friends are the family you choose.”

Throughout their adventures, Hitpig and Pickles have a sibling-like relationship, reminiscent of Luca and Alberto in Luca.

Overall, the Howl applauds this children’s film. Though it may be a little young for older teens, it’s funny, wholesome and action-packed. The Howl believes that Hitpig! deserves an 8/10.