Air Bud: Golden Receiver
By Joly Herman,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Cute but more intense than other Air Bud movies.
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Based on 2 parent reviews
Cute show
What's the Story?
Josh (Kevin Zegers) is devoted to his dog, Bud, who has proved that he has a penchant for playing basketball. What Josh does not realize is that Bud also plays a mean game of football. At the same time, a pair of villains is trying to abduct Bud to build their circus act. But more importantly to the movie, Josh is coping with the fact that his mother (Cynthia Stevens) is beginning to date again. This is a hard pill to swallow, since Josh's father passed away and still lives in Josh's heart. But with the help of his friends, his football coach, and his canine pal, Bud, he finds that life does go on after all.
Is It Any Good?
This movie is fun and actually rather moving. Josh's relationship with his dog really highlights how a pet can change the dynamic of an otherwise melancholy home. Moreover, the thoughtful performance that Kevin Zegers brings to the fore is very believable. This counterbalances the comedic aspect of the dog-in-a-football-uniform-winning-the-game formula. A good choice for a family movie night!
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Josh's situation. Does life really go on when a family member passes away? How do we deal with death and still try to live a full life?
How is Josh coping with his dad's death?
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: Sports and Martial Arts
- Run time: 90 minutes
- MPAA rating: G
- Last updated: March 31, 2022
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