Common Sense Media Review
By Sandie Angulo Chen
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Not too many new tricks left for the old Underdog.
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Underdog
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 5 parent reviews
Based on 16 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a mix of humor and intense moments, making it a kid-friendly superhero option, although opinions vary widely. While some enjoy its comedic elements and find it cute, others criticize it for being an average film that doesn't live up to the superhero genre's potential.
- humor
- intense moments
- kid-friendly
- average film
- cute characters
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Jason Lee voices the titular beagle, who abandons his post as a police dog, gets zapped with superpowers by Capitol City's resident mad scientist, Dr. Barsinister (Peter Dinklage), and unexpectedly lands at the home of security guard Dan Unger (James Belushi) and his mopey teenager Jack (Alex Neuberger). Jack, who initially dismisses the new pet his dad names Shoeshine, soon discovers the rescue dog is anything but normal -- he's got superstrength and can inexplicably talk human. Together they decide to use Shoeshine's abilities to keep their city crime free. With a cape, an undersized "U" sweater, and a penchant for speaking in rhyme, Underdog is born.
Is It Any Good?
UNDERDOG is back, but instead of capturing the kitschy fun of the long-running animated series, the rhyming canine has been rather blandly transformed into a gabbing live-action dog. Never fear, however, as most kids won't know the difference since it's parents and not children who remember the beloved original.
But aside from a couple of laughs coaxed from slapsticky antics, the predictable action seems squarely aimed at very young children. There's nothing remarkable about the special effects, nor does the story line build to a thrilling dramatic showdown. Underdog obviously saves the day, but it's not all that heart-stopping. Still, young ones love talking animals, and they'll overlook the film's shortcomings when they see a flying superdog.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the importance of helping others -- especially the people you love. How does Underdog help bring Jack and his dad together? How do they help Underdog? Kids: What would you do if your dog had superpowers? Families who've seen episodes of the old TV show can also talk about how it compares with this version.
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 3, 2007
- On DVD or streaming : December 18, 2007
- Cast : James Belushi , Jason Lee , Peter Dinklage
- Director : Frederik Du Chau
- Studio : Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Superheroes , Adventures
- Run time : 84 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : rude humor, mild language and action.
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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