Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Cute but more intense than other Air Bud movies.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Air Bud: Golden Receiver
What's the Story?
In AIR BUD: GOLDEN RECEIVER Josh (Kevin Zegers) navigates the loss of his father with the help of his dog, Buddy, who has proven that he has a penchant for playing basketball. What Josh doesn't realize is that Buddy also plays a mean game of football. At the same time, a pair of villains is trying to abduct Buddy to build their circus act. With help from his mother, friends, his football coach, and his canine pal, Josh finds that life does go on after all.
Is It Any Good?
This movie is fun and rather moving. Air Bud: Golden Receiver really highlights how a pet can change the dynamic of an otherwise melancholy home. Moreover, the thoughtful performance that Zegers brings to the fore as the sometimes volatile, sometimes tender Josh is very believable. This helps balance the comedic aspect of the dog-in-a-football-uniform-winning-the-game formula.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Josh's life after the loss of his father in Air Bud: Golden Receiver. How does life go on when a family member passes away? What are some healthy ways of coping with grief -- or unhealthy ways to avoid?
Buddy has mastered basketball and football. What sports would you like to master? Why those particular sports?
Do you consider Natalya and Popov offensive characters? How do they perpetuate cliches about Russian people?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 12, 1998
- On DVD or streaming : December 12, 2000
- Cast : Gregory Harrison , Kevin Zegers , Tim Conway
- Director : Richard Martin
- Studio : Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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