Common Sense Media Review
By Kat Halstead
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Upbeat Disney underdog sports drama has positive messages.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Alley Cats Strike
What's the Story?
In ALLEY CATS STRIKE, Alex Thompson (Kyle Schmid) spends his days at his father's bowling alley, playing with friends and avoiding the trappings of regular school life. But when a big annual school sports competition ends in a tie, it's decided the tie-break match should be between the school's bowling teams.
Is It Any Good?
A wholesome, old-fashioned feeling of nostalgia runs through this sweet family movie, from the music to the portrayal of the innocence of youth. Rod Daniel -- director of 80s high-school comedy, Teen Wolf -- lines up the perfect mix of teen drama and town spirit to keep it energetic, with some fun training and dance montages thrown in. The underlying story of finding common ground in different schools is hardly original and is packed with clichés. But the strong identities of the bowling group compared to the jocks and cheerleaders gives it almost a High School Musical feel, with the predictable story rolling along at an enjoyable pace.
Alley Cats Strike builds the pressure well, and creates a strong sense of community within the town, even as it shows the downsides to placing such a strong onus on competition. Most of the young actors are convincing and the eagle-eyed will spot a young Kaley Cuoco from The Big Bang Theory among the bowling buddies. That said, some of the adult acting is a touch hammy at times. Overall, this is inoffensive fun with a solid message that'll strike a chord and have the whole family cheering for the team.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the positive messages in Alley Cats Strike. How does the movie teach us not to judge on first impressions? What other messages does the movie teach us?
How are stereotypes used in the movie? Were they necessary to the story? How stereotypes in movies and on TV can impact kids' development.
Discuss the father-son relationships in the movie -- what are the similarities and differences between them? What makes a good relationship between a parent and child?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : March 18, 2000
- Cast : Kyle Schmid , Robert Ri'chard , Kaley Cuoco
- Director : Rod Daniel
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Disney Channel Original Movies
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Teamwork
- Run time : 87 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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