The Croods 3 (2025) is the latest 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 the 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, rapidly changing world. The sequel, A New Age, expanded the family dynamic, adding new characters like the Bettermans, a more evolved and technologically advanced family, which caused some hilariously awkward tension between the two clans. Now, The Croods 3 will focus on further expanding the world of the Croods, exploring deeper themes of family, adaptation, and self-discovery.
The film is set to bring back the lovable prehistoric family and will introduce new characters and challenges as the Croods embark on their biggest journey yet. The Croods 3 will likely continue the blend of slapstick humor, heartwarming moments, and action-packed adventures that defined the previous films, while expanding the scope of their world and pushing the Croods to adapt in ways they’ve never had to before.
Plot Summary
In The Croods 3, the Crood family has started to settle into a more stable life after their initial journeys. They’ve found a new home, a place where they can finally feel secure from the dangers of the prehistoric world. However, peace doesn’t last long in the Croods’ world, and a new adventure quickly beckons.
The film opens with the family encountering a new, mysterious part of their world: a lush, hidden paradise island. The island is filled with strange creatures and bizarre new plants, unlike anything they’ve ever seen before. While it initially seems like the perfect place to settle down, the island hides dark secrets that soon threaten their safety and harmony.
The family is soon confronted by a massive, prehistoric storm that strikes the island, leaving them stranded and separated from one another. Each family member must embark on a personal journey of self-discovery in order to reunite, using their unique skills 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 their own decisions.
Meanwhile, Eep Crood (voiced by Emma Stone) is struggling 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 Gran Crood (voiced by Cloris Leachman) offers her own brand of wisdom and humor as the oldest member of the family.
The central conflict revolves around a powerful, 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 the family members. It will also explore the themes of adaptation and change, showing how the Croods are learning to evolve in a world that is constantly shifting. 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 continues to be the overprotective and somewhat stubborn father, struggling to balance his desire to shield 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 both humor and emotional depth to the role.
- Ugga Crood (Catherine Keener) – Ugga remains the steady and nurturing mother who often serves as the emotional anchor for 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 grown into 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 the love for her family. Emma Stone’s voice performance will continue to shine as Eep navigates her internal conflict and grows emotionally throughout the film.
- Thunk Crood (Clark Duke) – Thunk is the well-meaning, slightly dim-witted but lovable son who often brings comic relief to the family’s dynamic. In the third film, Thunk’s journey will involve proving his worth and trying to be seen as more than just the comic foil of the family. Expect plenty of slapstick humor and charming moments from his character.
- Gran Crood (Cloris Leachman) – Gran remains a hilarious and witty character, providing sage advice and a sense of humor in the midst of the chaos. Her comic timing will continue to be a highlight of the movie, offering a mix of wisdom and irreverence.
- New Characters (TBD) – As the family explores the hidden island, they will likely encounter new prehistoric creatures, both friend and foe. New human characters may also be introduced, including potential rivals or allies who challenge the Croods in different ways.
Themes and Direction
The themes of family and adaptation will continue to be 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 onto the past and embracing the future will be explored as Grug faces his own fears and learns to trust his family more.
The theme of independence vs. 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 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 the unknown parts of the world, finding new creatures, dangers, and wonders. The film will continue the series’ focus on humor, with plenty of physical comedy, visual gags, and heartwarming moments.
Visuals and Animation
The animation in The Croods 3 is expected to be just 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 full of colorful flora, dangerous fauna, and dynamic weather patterns.
The animation will continue to feature dynamic, action-packed sequences, with the Croods facing new challenges that push their physical and emotional limits. Expect thrilling chases, comical mishaps, and awe-inspiring moments as the family journeys through the unknown.
Music and Soundtrack
The musical score 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 a rousing, fun soundtrack that complements the action and emotional beats. Expect energetic themes for the action scenes and more tender, emotional melodies for the quieter, family-centric moments.
Conclusion
The Croods 3 (2025) promises to be another exciting and heartwarming addition to the series. With its lovable characters, humorous antics, and themes of family, growth, and exploration, the film will continue the Croods’ journey into new and unexpected territories. Whether they’re facing a new prehistoric paradise, discovering the value of change, or coming together in times of crisis, The Croods 3 will offer plenty of laughs, action, and heart for both kids and adults alike.
