Introduction to “Dora: Say Hola to Adventure! (2023)”

“Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” is a special animated film released in 2023, marking a vibrant return of Dora, the beloved young explorer who has captured the hearts of children worldwide. This movie is not just an extension of the Dora the Explorer franchise but also a crucial stepping stone for the rebooted animated series of the same name, which premiered on Paramount+ in 2024. Directed by Don Kim and J. Meeka Stuart, “Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” takes viewers on a magical journey through a tropical rainforest, where Dora and her friends face new challenges while delivering messages of friendship, courage, and the joy of discovery.

The film features a talented voice cast, including Diana Zermeño as Dora, Asher Colton Spence as Boots, and Marc Weiner reprising his role as the mischievous fox, Swiper. With a runtime of 44 minutes, this production is designed to captivate young audiences while sparking curiosity and excitement through Dora’s signature interactive storytelling.

Plot and Setting

“Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” transports viewers into a fresh adventure set in a lush, colorful rainforest. The story begins with Dora and her best friend, Boots the monkey, preparing for a special day at Party Park, where they plan to host a celebration with their friends. However, their plans take a turn when a naughty rain cloud escapes, threatening to ruin the festivities. With the help of Backpack (Mochila) and Map (Mapa), Dora, Boots, and the young audience embark on a mission to chase down the cloud and bring it back to the river, ensuring the party can go ahead as planned.

Throughout their journey, Dora and Boots encounter a series of fun challenges. They must learn a special three-step dance—”Uno, Dos, Tres, Ritmo!”—to control the cloud and navigate a boat across the river. Along the way, a mysterious sound called the “Wizzle Wozzle Woo” puzzles the group, only to reveal itself as the snoring of Big Red Chicken, a familiar character, who accidentally shakes a kazoo bush. In the end, with assistance from the Fiesta Trio and the audience, Dora completes the mission, bringing joy to everyone at Party Park.

The rainforest setting is brought to life with vibrant colors, natural sounds, and eye-catching CGI details. It serves not only as the backdrop for the story but also as a visual classroom, introducing children to nature, animals, and the value of teamwork.

Key Characters

“Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” retains the spirit of the original series with its beloved characters, refreshed to suit a modern audience:

1. Dora Márquez: The central figure, Dora remains the smart, brave, and energetic girl fans adore. In this film, she showcases leadership by guiding Boots and the audience through obstacles. Her signature interaction—asking viewers questions and encouraging participation—keeps her approachable and engaging.
2. Boots: Dora’s loyal monkey companion brings humor and heart to the story. Boots learns the “Ritmo” dance with Dora’s encouragement, reinforcing the message that anyone can overcome challenges with small, steady steps.
3. Swiper: Though the familiar antagonist doesn’t play a major role in this special, Swiper’s presence in Dora’s world remains significant, hinting at the recurring challenges she often faces.
4. Backpack and Map: Dora’s trusty helpers get a modern makeover. Backpack provides essential tools, like a rope to catch the cloud, while Map—now reimagined as a female character—guides the group through the rainforest. Map’s gender switch adds a fresh layer of diversity to the cast.
5. Big Red Chicken and Fiesta Trio: Big Red Chicken delivers laughs as the unexpected source of the “Wizzle Wozzle Woo,” while the Fiesta Trio enhances the festive vibe with lively music.

Standout Elements

1. Modern CGI Animation

Unlike the original series’ traditional 2D animation, “Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” is fully realized in CGI, offering a smoother, more dynamic visual experience. Details like rainforest foliage, shimmering rivers, and the playful rain cloud are meticulously crafted, creating a realistic yet child-friendly atmosphere.

2. Audience Interaction

A hallmark of Dora’s brand is her direct engagement with viewers. In this film, she continues to pose questions like, “Can you help me find the cloud?” or “Say ‘Backpack’ with me!” This keeps kids invested and encourages active participation, boosting their listening and response skills.

3. Music and Dance

Music is a driving force in “Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” Songs like “Uno, Dos, Tres, Ritmo!” and the Fiesta Trio’s tunes are catchy and memorable, helping kids learn counting and movement. The recurring three-step dance teaches sequencing and patience in a creative way.

4. Educational Messages

Beyond entertainment, the film is rich with lessons. Dora and Boots’ journey shows that problems can be solved by breaking them into manageable steps. Exploring the rainforest also introduces kids to nature and fosters an early appreciation for environmental stewardship.

Significance and Impact

“Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” bridges the gap between old and new fans of Dora the Explorer. For those who grew up with the original series, it’s a chance to see a cherished character in a fresh light, while today’s kids meet a modern Dora tailored to the digital age.

The film reflects Nickelodeon and Paramount+’s efforts to revitalize classic franchises, preserving core values while adapting to contemporary tastes. The shift to CGI, updated character designs, and innovations like a female Map demonstrate creativity and a commitment to quality content for young viewers.

Moreover, the movie celebrates diversity, particularly Latin American culture. By weaving Spanish phrases like “Vámonos!” (Let’s go!) and “Gracias!” (Thank you!) into the dialogue, it encourages kids to learn a second language naturally and joyfully.

Comparison to the Original Series

Compared to the Dora the Explorer series that debuted in 2000, “Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” introduces notable differences. The original relied on simple 2D animation, while this special uses CGI for added depth and vibrancy. The classic series typically followed a formula of Dora and Boots traveling through three locations to reach a goal, whereas this film expands the narrative with unexpected twists, like the rain cloud chase and the “Wizzle Wozzle Woo” mystery.

Yet, Dora’s core essence—curiosity, kindness, and problem-solving—remains unchanged. This consistency ensures that, across any iteration, Dora stays a reliable companion for kids worldwide.

Audience Reception and Future Prospects

Following its release on Paramount+ on November 10, 2023, “Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” earned positive feedback from parents and children alike. Many praised its stunning visuals, upbeat music, and Dora’s signature interactivity. Some noted that the 44-minute runtime strikes a perfect balance—long enough to engage but not overwhelm young viewers.

The film paved the way for the rebooted “Dora” series, which launched in April 2024 on Paramount+, with a second season announced shortly after and a third confirmed in September 2024. The success of “Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” signals the franchise’s enduring potential, promising more adventures ahead.

Conclusion

“Dora: Say Hola to Adventure! (2023)” is a delightful film for kids, blending entertainment, education, and creativity. With its striking CGI visuals, infectious music, and meaningful lessons, it enchants young viewers while giving parents confidence in its wholesome content. It’s a testament to Dora’s lasting appeal—a fearless explorer who continues to inspire generations, from the past to the present and into the future.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly movie to enjoy and learn from, “Dora: Say Hola to Adventure!” is a must-watch. Join Dora in saying “Hola!” and dive into a wondrous rainforest adventure today!