The Croods 3 (2025) – Detailed Review
Overview
The Croods 3 (2025) is the final chapter in the Croods franchise, following the success of The Croods (2013) and The Croods: A New Age (2020). Directed by Joel Crawford (who also directed the second film), this third installment promises to continue the family-friendly prehistoric adventures of the Crood family, led by ever-enthusiastic father Grug Crood (voiced by Nicolas Cage ) and his resilient wife Ugga Crood (voiced by Catherine Keener ).
The first two films introduced audiences to the Croods, a family of cavemen struggling to survive in a dangerous and ever-changing world. The sequel, A New Age , expanded on the family dynamic, adding new characters like the Bettermans , a more evolved and technologically advanced family, leading to hilariously awkward tension between the two clans. Now, The Croods 3 will focus on expanding the world of the Croods even further, exploring deeper themes of family, adaptation, and self-discovery.
The film will bring back the lovable prehistoric family and introduce new characters and challenges as the Croods embark on their biggest journey yet. The Croods 3 is likely to continue the mix of physical humor, heartwarming moments, and action-packed adventure that defined the previous films, while expanding the scope of its world and forcing the Croods to adapt in ways they've never had to before.
Plot summary
In The Croods 3 , the Crood family has begun to settle into a more stable life after their initial travels. They've found a new home, a place where they can finally feel safe from the dangers of the prehistoric world. However, peace doesn't last long in the Croods' world, and a new adventure quickly awaits them.
The film begins with the family discovering a mysterious new part of their world: a lush, hidden island paradise . The island is filled with strange creatures and rare new plants, unlike anything they've seen before. While at first it seems like the perfect place to settle down, the island hides dark secrets that soon threaten their safety and harmony.
The family soon faces a massive prehistoric storm that hits the island, leaving them stranded and separated from one another. Each member of the family must embark on a personal journey of self-discovery in order to reunite, using their unique abilities and personal growth from past adventures. At the center of the plot is Grug Crood , who will have to face his greatest fear: letting go of the need to control everything and learning to trust his family to make his own decisions.
Meanwhile, Eep Crood (voiced by Emma Stone ) struggles with her desire for independence and is torn between staying close to her family or exploring the island's hidden secrets on her own. Thunk Crood (voiced by Clark Duke ) is eager to prove his worth, while Big Crood (voiced by Cloris Leachman ) offers her own take on wisdom and humor as the oldest member of the family.
The central conflict revolves around a powerful and mysterious force on the island that seeks to control the island's resources: perhaps a more evolved prehistoric species or a powerful natural phenomenon that threatens to change everything the Croods know about survival.
The film will feature comedic moments as the Croods learn to navigate the island, face threats from strange creatures, and deal with the dynamics between family members. It will also explore the themes of adaptation and change , showing how the Croods are learning to evolve in a constantly changing world. Ultimately, the family must come together to face the unknown and prove that no matter how much they change, they will always be a family. 
Characters and performances
- Grug Crood (Nicolas Cage) – Grug remains the overprotective and somewhat headstrong father, struggling to balance his desire to protect his family from danger with the growing realization that he can’t control everything. Cage’s performance as Grug will continue to be filled with his unique blend of intensity and vulnerability, bringing humor and emotional depth to the role.
- Ugga Crood (Catherine Keener) : Ugga remains the firm, protective mother who often acts as the emotional anchor of the family. Keener's portrayal will continue to bring warmth and strength to Ugga as she supports Grug while also encouraging her children to embrace their growth and independence.
- Eep Crood (Emma Stone) – Eep has become a more independent young woman, and her journey in The Croods 3 will revolve around finding her own identity while balancing the desires of her adventurous spirit with her love for her family. Emma Stone’s vocal performance will continue to shine as Eep deals with her inner conflict and grows emotionally throughout the film.
- Thunk Crood (Clark Duke) – Thunk is the well-meaning, slightly dimwitted but lovable son who often brings a comic relief to the family dynamic. In the third film, Thunk’s journey will be about proving his worth and trying to be seen as more than just the comic relief character of the family. Expect plenty of humor and charming moments from his character.
- Gran Crood (Cloris Leachman) : Gran remains a fun and witty character, offering sage advice and a sense of humor amidst the chaos. Her sense of humor will continue to be a highlight of the film, as she offers a mix of wisdom and irreverence.
- New Characters (TBD) – As the family explores the hidden island, they are likely to encounter new prehistoric creatures, both friends and foes. New human characters may also appear, including potential rivals or allies who challenge the Croods in different ways.
Topics and direction
Themes of family and adaptation will remain central to The Croods 3. The film will explore how the Croods evolve and grow together as a family in response to external challenges, but also internally as each member faces their own personal growth. The conflict between holding on to the past and embracing the future will be explored as Grug faces his own fears and learns to rely more on his family.
The theme of independence versus togetherness will be explored, especially with characters like Eep, who desires more freedom, and Grug, who struggles to let go of his overprotective tendencies. This conflict will highlight the tension between wanting to control one's own destiny and learning to work as a unit.
The Croods 3 will also emphasize the beauty of discovery and exploration , as the family ventures into uncharted parts of the world, encountering new creatures, dangers and wonders. The film will continue the series' focus on humor, with plenty of physical comedy, sight gags and heartwarming moments.
Visuals and animation
The animation in The Croods 3 is expected to be as vibrant and imaginative as the previous films. The prehistoric world once again serves as a rich canvas for visually stunning landscapes and fantastical creatures. The lush island setting will offer a new environment filled with colorful flora, dangerous fauna and dynamic weather patterns.
The animation will continue to feature dynamic, action-packed sequences, in which the Croods will face new challenges that will test their physical and emotional limits. Expect thrilling chases, comical mishaps and jaw-dropping moments as the family journeys into the unknown. 
Music and soundtrack
The soundtrack will likely remain upbeat and whimsical, reflecting the film's adventurous tone. Composer Alan Silvestri , who worked on the first two films, could return to provide an exciting and fun score to complement the action and emotional beats. Expect energetic themes for the action scenes and more tender, emotional tunes for the quieter, family-focused moments.
Conclusion
The Croods 3 (2025) promises to be another exciting and heartwarming addition to the series. With its lovable characters, hilarious antics, and themes of family, growth, and exploration, the film will continue the Croods’ journey into new and unexpected territories. Whether they brave a new prehistoric paradise, discover the value of change, or come together in times of crisis, The Croods 3 will offer plenty of laughs, action, and excitement for kids and adults alike.