Underdog (2007)

Overall rating from 1 to 100: 51

O Masterpiece (95-100)
O Excellent (75-94)
O Good video rental (60-74)
X Merely OK (50-59)
O Pure mediocrity (30-49)
O Medusa: don't watch (1-29)

Review by Jason Pyles / August 11, 2007

In 1964, a silly but vintage cartoon called “Underdog” began on television, introducing a canine superhero that is, more or less, a dog version of Superman. Flash forward to present day when Walt Disney Pictures brings us a live-action feature film that has a dog-like loyalty to its animated antecedent.

I'd typically describe the plot, but since this is a movie about a flying super-dog, that no longer seems pertinent.

Let me just mention that this movie follows all of the same steps that any other superhero’s origin story does, which means you’ll know how the initially inadequate protagonist accidentally receives his super powers and how hard it is for him to get used to them.

Believe it or not, my biggest gripe with “Underdog” is more of a technical one. I was immensely dissatisfied with the movie’s sound, an essential element to a sound film. As presumptuous as I may seem for writing that, I’m here to tell you that it’s noticeably bad. For example, during one scene, the characters stand outside, in their yard; and when they talk, they sound like their talking inside of a tin can. Come on, Jessica Gallavan (supervising ADR editor), let’s get it together.

There are some humorous parts, here and there, particularly one well-done homage to a much earlier Disney-dog creation, “Lady and the Tramp” (1955).

Also, I might add that Underdog’s voice was provided by Jason Lee, the lead from the TV show “My Name is Earl.” He employs the same voice-over narration style in this movie. James Belushi has a thankless role, but it sure is good to see him again. Oh, and you will most likely enjoy Patrick Warburton, playing his usual character from “Seinfeld” and “The Emperor’s New Groove” (2000).

“Underdog” is quite silly and even more preposterous, but let’s face it: There are worse movies. (See my review for “Bratz: The Movie.”) In short, “Underdog” is only for dog lovers, young children and hardcore fans of the cartoon.

Directed by Frederik Du Chau
Jason Lee / James Belushi / Patrick Warburton
84 min. Comedy / Family
MPAA: PG (for rude humor, mild language and action)

Copyright 2007.
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