September 11, 2025

The world’s most eccentric pet detective makes a long-awaited return in Ace Ventura 3: Lost in Time, and it’s everything fans could hope for: wacky, unpredictable, and outrageously fun. After decades away, Ace is back in a new adventure that doesn’t just test his animal-whispering skills but throws him into the most bizarre challenge yet—time travel. The film wastes no time reintroducing us to the hyperactive, rubber-faced chaos of Ace, only this time with even higher stakes and even crazier scenarios that prove comedy can thrive in unexpected places.

The story begins with Ace being called in to solve the disappearance of a rare, ancient tortoise linked to mysterious archaeological digs. His pursuit leads him to stumble upon a time-bending artifact, and before he knows it, the detective finds himself traveling through different eras—from prehistoric jungles swarming with dinosaurs to futuristic cities ruled by robotic wildlife. The idea of Ace confronting not only animals of all kinds but entire worlds outside his own time frame gives the narrative an unpredictable spark, making every scene feel fresh and full of surprises.

What makes this sequel stand out is how it balances Ace’s over-the-top humor with genuinely thrilling adventure. The slapstick antics and wild catchphrases remain intact, but they’re layered with set pieces that feel almost epic in scale. Watching Ace try to tame a mammoth while delivering his signature exaggerated mannerisms or negotiating peace between cavemen and sabertooth tigers is as ridiculous as it is entertaining. The film understands its own absurdity and embraces it, which is precisely why it works so well.

Jim Carrey’s return to the role feels like a nostalgic homecoming, yet he injects a surprising freshness into Ace. His physical comedy remains unmatched, but it’s the small emotional beats—moments where Ace reflects on his purpose and place in the world—that give the film unexpected depth. There’s also clever writing that pokes fun at time-travel clichés while still delivering heartfelt moments between Ace and the creatures he bonds with across timelines. Supporting characters add to the chaos, especially a quirky scientist who unwillingly partners with Ace, creating a classic odd-couple dynamic.

Visually, Lost in Time takes full advantage of modern effects without losing the cartoonish charm of the earlier films. The time travel sequences are vibrant and imaginative, with each era brought to life in colorful detail. From slapstick comedy in medieval castles to futuristic hover-zoos where Ace desperately tries to free alien pets, the production design keeps the movie visually captivating. The soundtrack complements the absurd energy, blending iconic Ace Ventura musical cues with epic orchestral flourishes that parody blockbuster time-travel adventures.

Ultimately, Ace Ventura 3: Lost in Time succeeds because it never forgets its roots while boldly going in a direction no one expected. It’s a film that doesn’t take itself seriously but still manages to deliver excitement, laughter, and a surprising sense of heart. For longtime fans, it’s a triumphant return of a beloved character; for newcomers, it’s an invitation into a world where absurdity reigns supreme. Wild, hilarious, and unexpectedly epic, this third entry proves that even across time, Ace Ventura is still the ultimate pet detective.