Movie review: Paw Patrol: Valiente — A Tracker Story
If you love the pups of PAW Patrol, enjoy teamwork and have some fears of your own, Paw Patrol: Valiente – A Tracker Story is the film for you. A fresh addition to the long-running series, the story focuses on Tracker, a pup who usually does not get as much attention as the others.
This 44-minute special blends adventure with a simple, yet meaningful message about fear, courage and personal growth. Valiente is the theme song of the PAW Patrol Season 11 special, Valiente: A Tracker Story, and is performed by Gabriel González.
The story takes place in the mysterious Shadow Jungle, where night animals are being forced to leave because something is going wrong. Tracker joins Carlos, Ryder’s pen pal from the jungle, to investigate. They soon discover that the problem is not just about the jungle, it is also connected to Tracker’s fear of the dark.
The villain, Lucita Mala, wants to take over the Shadow Jungle. She is also afraid of the dark and wants to end it completely. She claims that her grandfather discovered the jungle and that it belongs to her. Because of her fear, she plans to turn the jungle as bright as day using the water of a magic sinkhole, which she is searching for. Though her team is clumsy, they manage to outsmart the PAW Patrol at times.
The animation has improved and with no city or mayor involved, the jungle setting feels calm at first. However, the Shadow Jungle is darker and more serious, adding to the sense of danger and mystery.
What makes Valiente different from many other PAW Patrol stories is its focus on Tracker’s emotions. We learn about his past and a frightening experience he had as a young pup, which helps us understand his fear. After all, everyone is afraid of something and Tracker shows how to face those fears.
In the end, Valiente: A Tracker Story delivers a clear message: being brave does not mean having no fear, but facing it. It is a lifelong lesson if one applies it. With its focus on Tracker and a strong emotional story, the special stands out and can be enjoyed by both children and older viewers.
Published in Dawn, Young World, May 2nd, 2026