Dora and the Lost City of Gold is a live-action adaptation of the animated series for young children. As a result, it should be expected that the film isn't exactly made with older audiences in mind. The casting of the actress for the titular role did a great job at portraying the character but that's about where the positives ends. Immediately upon the opening scene, it sets the expectations that this is not going to be a serious film. The special effects are noticeably poor in quality, and when the animated talking fox shows up, you know that it forgoes realism for a more faithful adaptation (which isn't necessary a bad thing if you're a fan of the show). The film doesn't have much that would keep the attention of older audiences. The plot is simple in which Dora, having grown up in the jungle, struggles to adjust to city life and going to high school. Naturally, she ends up being called upon to find a lost city in order to save her parents and her "friends" are being forced to tag along and then appreciate her for who she is. The villain is one note and it is one generic development after another. Just when you thought some scenes are okay, the next will have some attempt at humor that can feel forced. Overall, the film is below average if you judge it as a standalone with no familiarity with the show, but it's a bit better if you're younger and are a fan of the character already.
