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.
Jason Lee voices the titular beagle, one that 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.
Like in the cartoon, Shoeshine is smitten with the cute, Underdog-crushing cocker-spaniel Polly Purebred (Amy Adams), the pet of Alex's pretty middle-school friend Molly (Taylor Momsen). And Dr. Barsinister is still aided by his giant-but-dim henchman Cad (a frosted-haired Patrick Warburton).
But aside from a couple of laughs -- mostly at Cad and his slapsticky antics and stupidity -- the predictable action seems squarely aimed at very young children. There's nothing remarkable about the special effects nor does the storyline 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 will overlook the film's shortcomings when they see a flying superdog.
Families who like heroic dog flicks may also enjoy Firehouse Dog, Good Boy, and Air Bud.
Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that they might be more excited to see a beloved old cartoon transformed to a film than their kids. But even children who've never heard of the super crime-fighting dog will be drawn to a talking-animal movie. Although it's lighthearted, there is some mild and cartoonish violence involving characters being dragged through the street, hit with street objects, threatened by German Shepherds or a mass scientist and his sidekick. Dog owners: Don't be surprised if your young child pretends your pet is Underdog.
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?
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
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