THE SEARCH FOR SANTA PAWS
(G)
MOVIE: *** (out of 5)
BLU-RAY EXPERIENCE: *** (out of 5)
BY KEVIN CARR
WHAT IT’S ABOUT
The latest installment of the Air Buddies franchise doesn’t even involve the Air Buddies in the film. “The Search for Santa Paws” takes the character of Santa Paws from “Santa Buddies” and transports him to New York City where he is lost. Santa comes looking for him, but when the Christmas magic is switched, Santa loses his memory. It’s up to Santa Paws and his friends in an orphanage to help save Santa Claus and the spirit of Christmas.
WHAT I LIKED
I like these Air Buddies movies because they go over so well with my kids. This film, and its predecessor, are especially fun because they tap into the magical spirit of Christmas as well. It’s a great film to watch with the family, and coming from the Disney studios with a G rating, it’s very safe for all family viewing.
What I liked most about this movie was the decision to expand the Air Buddies universe. Just as the Air Bud movies were passed along to the pups, we are getting introduced to more dogs for an expanded world of adventure.
This film is cheesy, yes, but not too cheesy to enjoy with the kids. It showcases Madison Pettis from “The Game Plan,” and it’s nice to see her back on Disney’s film roster. Plus, the adult actors look like they’re having fun rather than just collecting a paycheck.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE
I could go on a tear about how corny this movie is or how it’s Disney selling commercialism while condemning it at the same time, but I’m in too good of a holiday mood to do that. After all, these are the kind of movies that are made for kids. Adults will poke holes all through them, but they’re not the important viewers here.
BLU-RAY FEATURES
The Blu-ray comes packaged with the DVD, both of which include deleted scenes, a music video, a sing-along mode for the film and “The Hucklebuckle Hero,” a set-top game in which the kids have to help T-Money save Christmas.
WHO’S GOING TO LIKE THIS MOVIE
Kids and dog lovers.