The latest feature-length installment of the Tom and Jerry franchise, Tom and Jerry: Forbidden Compass, has reached a critical low point following its recent domestic debut. After the aggregation of professional reviews this week, the film holds a 0% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The film, which arrived in U.S. theaters on September 4, 2026, via distributor Viva Kids, represents the first time the cat-and-mouse duo has been featured in a fully computer-animated (CGI) theatrical production. Unlike the 2021 film, which utilized a live-action/CGI hybrid style, or the traditional 2D animation of the original shorts, Forbidden Compass relies entirely on 3D character models and environments.
Production Background and Sidelined Stars
A co-production between Warner Bros. Pictures, China Film Co., and Origin Animation, Forbidden Compass was designed as a collaboration to localize the long-standing brand for international markets. The story follows Tom and Jerry as they are transported into a realm of Chinese mythology after activating a magical compass found within a museum. The film initially premiered at the Shanghai International Film Festival in 2025 and saw an earlier release in China.
Despite the legacy of the characters, critics have argued that the titular leads feel like guests in their own movie. Much of the criticism centers on the decision to relegate Tom and Jerry to supporting roles, favoring a cast of new human characters and long sequences of heavy exposition. Reviewers noted that the slapstick comedy and wordless rivalry—the hallmarks of the franchise since 1940—were frequently interrupted by a complex plot regarding ancient myths and magical artifacts.
Helen O’Hara of Empire Magazine was among the critics to pan the production, awarding the film one out of five stars and describing the experience as a “relentless mess.” This sentiment was echoed across the critical board, resulting in the rare 0% consensus.
Audience and Critic Disconnect
While professional critics were unanimous in their disapproval, general audiences have been slightly more receptive, though still critical. The Rotten Tomatoes “Popcornmeter,” which tracks verified audience ratings, currently stands at approximately 30%. While this is significantly higher than the critical score, it remains a lackluster showing for a franchise typically known for its broad family appeal.
The primary disconnect appears to be the experimental nature of the CGI transition and the departure from the series’ roots. While younger viewers may find some entertainment in the visual spectacle of the mythological setting, long-time fans and critics have largely rejected the film’s move away from the simple, physics-defying combat that defined the original William Hanna and Joseph Barbera creations.
