Hotel Transylvania 5: Fright of Passage (2026)

Get ready for another monstrous adventure in Hotel Transylvania 5: Fright of Passage, where the Drac Pack returns for a hilarious and heartfelt romp that tackles the one thing scarier than monsters themselves—puberty. In this latest chapter of the beloved animated franchise, Count Dracula (Adam Sandler) finds himself in the most challenging predicament of his undead life: surviving his rebellious grandson Dennis’s teenage years.

Dennis, now 16 and embracing the full force of his teenage rebellion, shocks the family with a bold announcement: he wants to attend a regular human high school. As the half-vampire struggles with his dual identity, he’s determined to live a “normal” life, which, for him, means navigating the chaotic world of high school, away from the supernatural haven of Hotel Transylvania. While Johnny (Andy Samberg) is thrilled by the idea, envisioning it as an opportunity to bond with Dennis in the human world, Dracula is filled with dread. In his eyes, no one is prepared for the cruelty of human teenagers—especially not his precious grandson, who still has a lot to learn about the human race.

The classic blend of slapstick humor, family dynamics, and heartfelt moments make this movie as entertaining as ever. But what follows is a true test for Dracula’s patience and love for his family, as he faces the terrifying prospect of a human high school and all the awkward situations that come with it. Desperate to keep Dennis out of harm’s way, Drac hatches a plan to go undercover at the school. He enlists his trusty companions—Frank (Kevin James), Wayne, and Murray—to disguise themselves as the weirdest, most unconventional substitute teachers and cafeteria staff the school has ever seen.

What ensues is a series of hilarious, over-the-top moments as the Drac Pack embarks on their mission to ensure Dennis’s survival in the human world. Whether it’s Wayne turning into a werewolf in the middle of gym class, Murray turning the science lab into a mummy disaster zone, or Frank trying to teach a health class with a series of monstrous mishaps, the school becomes an absolute circus, all thanks to the weirdest undercover team imaginable. Each sequence is a mix of hilarious gags, physical comedy, and some of the most outlandish high school scenarios you can imagine.

However, amidst all the chaos, Hotel Transylvania 5 also brings a refreshing balance of deeper family moments. Dracula’s fear for his grandson’s safety transforms into a deeper realization about the nature of growing up. He begins to understand that while the human world may be filled with challenges and awkward moments, it’s also where Dennis can learn, grow, and become the person he’s meant to be. The heartwarming core of the film lies in Dracula’s journey of letting go and accepting that Dennis’s path in life will be different from his own—and that’s okay.

The soundtrack of Hotel Transylvania 5 is another highlight of the film, featuring a mix of catchy tunes that bring the story’s energetic and playful atmosphere to life. From classic rock anthems to lively dance beats, the music complements the film’s high-energy moments, ensuring that viewers of all ages will be tapping their feet along with the characters. Whether it’s a quirky montage of Drac and the gang wreaking havoc in high school or a heart-to-heart moment between Dennis and his family, the music helps elevate the emotional beats and adds to the fun.

While the plot may revolve around Dennis’s desire for normalcy and Dracula’s reluctance to embrace that change, the true charm of Hotel Transylvania 5 lies in its celebration of family and the ups and downs that come with growing up. Johnny’s enthusiasm for the idea of Dennis attending high school and the way the Drac Pack supports each other through the process serves as a reminder of the importance of love, understanding, and acceptance in a family. Even when the world around them feels strange and unpredictable, the bonds between them remain unbreakable.

As the story reaches its climax, Dennis must face the reality of his decision. His time at high school is filled with awkward encounters, misunderstandings, and the inevitable clash between his monstrous heritage and the human world. But through these moments of discomfort, Dennis learns more about himself, his family, and what it truly means to find a balance between two worlds.

The final sequence of the film is a mix of chaos and celebration as the Drac Pack realizes that sometimes, letting go and embracing change is the best way to move forward. In a heartwarming and somewhat hilarious finale, Dracula, Dennis, and the rest of the gang come together to prove that no matter how much things change, family will always be there to support and protect you.

Hotel Transylvania 5: Fright of Passage is another hilarious and heartwarming installment in the series, offering fans both the humor and the emotional depth they’ve come to expect. With fantastic performances from the voice cast, including Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Andy Samberg, and Selena Gomez, the film serves as a fitting continuation of the Hotel Transylvania saga. It’s a movie that will have audiences laughing, dancing, and perhaps even shedding a tear or two, as it reminds us all that growing up is a monster of a challenge—but it’s one we can face together.

Verdict: Hotel Transylvania 5: Fright of Passage delivers a blend of slapstick humor, heartfelt moments, and memorable action, proving that even in the world of monsters, puberty can be the scariest thing of all.