Parents' Guide to

Adventures of Bailey: Christmas Hero

By Grace Montgomery, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 5+

Holiday dog adventure explores Native American traditions.

Movie NR 2012 90 minutes
Adventures of Bailey: Christmas Hero Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Community Reviews

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age 2+

Based on 1 parent review

travisr
travisr Adult
December 21, 2015
age 2+

No one picks up on the fact that no one cares?

Did anyone notice that the only person that cared about the dogs was Truman? Grandpa looked for them briefly then suggested to wait after Christmas. The older sister LEFT THE YOUNG BROTHER AT A HOUSE WITH NO SUPERVISION TO GO PARTY! Mom and dad said "We'll look for them after Christmas". Grandma told Truman that he had to leave without the dogs. This was a lesson about people who never should own pets...Lol. My daughter got mad at me because the entire time I made fun of the movie.... Horrible movie, horrible actors. Dogs deserved better. Oh and stereotypical Indian guy was a hoot. Nothing like vague directions to get home by. What a joke...lol
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What's the Story?

After an unfortunate incident featuring a mall Santa, Bailey (Michael Turner) and Duke (Brad Hawkins) are on Santa's naughty list. Determined to get back in with Santa so he can get some Christmas loot, Bailey decides he's going to find Santa and make it right. While staying at Abbi (Christine Galyean) and Truman's (Trey Bumpass) grandparents' farm, Bailey hears about the Handsome Man, an American Indian chief nearby who will grant a Christmas wish. Bailey sets off to find him, with Duke reluctantly following. Meanwhile, while Truman and his grandpa search for the missing pooches, Grandpa tells Truman about the Native American tradition of the Handsome Man and Roving Angels, who share Christmas blessings throughout the year. But will Bailey and Duke find the Handsome Man in time to celebrate the holiday with their family? And will Truman find his beloved dogs before it's time to head home?

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1):
Kids say: Not yet rated

As with other Bailey adventures, this animal caper may feel a little lame and contrived for adult viewers, but it's sure to be an enjoyable watch for young animal lovers. The acting isn't great and is often downright cheesy, but Bailey's silly enthusiasm is appealing, and the other animal characters (Dolly Llama!) are cute and fun. There are a few mild thrills, but there's nothing too scary to put off the kindergarten crowd. Parents looking for a holiday film with a little variety also will appreciate the focus on different traditions.

There are some slight religious overtones (the Handsome Man talks a bit about Jesus) and some slightly awkward Native American stereotypes, which may put off some viewers, but overall it's a light and enjoyable holiday film.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the different traditions of Santa from around the world. How are the Handsome Man and the Santas from other cultures similar to the American tradition of Santa? How are they different?

  • Why do you think it feels so good to give things to other people? Is it more rewarding than receiving gifts?

  • What's your favorite holiday movie? Why is it your favorite?

Movie Details

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