Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this DVD centers on dog sled racing, which not all families believe is humane. Puppies and dogs are shown in scenes of peril, though none appear to be permanently affected. Loving families and the symbiotic relationship between children and their pets are depicted. A Gallic villain gets his comeuppance. Dog farts and fart jokes erupt frequently.
Families can talk about dog sled racing. Does it seem like it's more fun for the people or for the dogs? Should Adam have entered a dangerous race without talking it over with his parents first? Which of the five Buddies would you most like to have as a pet?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Nancy Davis Kho
In another spin-off of Disney's popular Air Bud franchise, the five distinctive offspring of golden retrievers Bud and Molly (voiced by Molly Shannon) are off on an Alaskan adventure, and come together as a team to help a new friend -- and themselves in the process. The puppies mistakenly end up in an ice cream shipment to Alaska. Once there they meet a Siberian husky puppy named Shasta (Dylan Sprouse) whose lonely owner, Adam (Dominic Scott Kay), yearns to take part in the town's big sled race. He lacks both his parents' approval and five extra sled dogs to race aside Shasta, but with the coaching of mystical sled dog Talon (Kris Kristofferson) the Buddies soon rise to the challenge.
It's hard to find fault with scenes of adorable puppies romping in the snow, and the simple story presents enough villains, challenges, and internal conflict to keep kids up to age 12 interested. Slapstick humor, including the requisite fart jokes, will have kids giggling throughout. But the same animal lovers who will enjoy the scenes of the Buddies with their human counterparts may be troubled by the villain's treatment of his sled dogs.
To see how each puppy got matched up with his or her perfect human companion, watch Air Buddies. Another great movie for those interested in dog sledding is Eight Below.
Rate It!
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ViolenceScenes of dogs in peril; mild description of a fatal sled racing accident, though no visuals; a mystical character's death is alluded to, but in an abstract fashion. |
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Social BehaviorSome potty humor, especially fart jokes, but puppies work together as a team to help a new friend, using their distinct differences to overcome obstacles. Importance of positive thinking in the face of adversity is presented throughout. |
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