“Air Bud” is a 1997 family comedy-drama film directed by Charles Martin Smith and starring Kevin Zegers and Buddy the Golden Retriever. The film follows 12-year-old Josh (Zegers), who discovers a talented basketball-playing dog named Buddy and forms an unlikely friendship with him. With Buddy’s help, Josh joins his school basketball team and discovers the joy of playing the game.
Review:
“Air Bud” is a heartwarming and charming family film that is perfect for all ages. The performances by the cast, particularly Kevin Zegers and Buddy the dog, are engaging and endearing, and the film’s message about the importance of perseverance and teamwork is timeless. The basketball scenes featuring Buddy are particularly entertaining and impressive, showcasing the incredible talents of the canine star.
Awards:
“Air Bud” did not receive any major awards, but was a commercial success and has since become a beloved classic of the family film genre.
Popularity:
“Air Bud” was a box office success, grossing over $27 million worldwide. It has a 5.2/10 rating on IMDb and a 45% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the film has remained popular with audiences of all ages, spawning numerous sequels and spin-offs.
| Directed by | Charles Martin Smith |
|---|---|
| Produced by | Robert Vince William Vince |
| Written by | Paul Tamasy Aaron Mendelsohn |
| Starring | Michael Jeter Kevin Zegers Wendy Makkena Eric Christmas Bill Cobbs Air Buddy |
| Music by | Brahm Wenger |
| Cinematography | Mike Southon |
| Edited by | Alison Grace |
| Production company |
Keystone Pictures Buddy Films, Inc. |
| Distributed by | Buena Vista Pictures Distribution (United States) Malofilm (Canada) |
| Release date | August 1, 1997 |
| Running time | 98 minutes |
| Country | United States Canada |
| Language | English |
| Budget | $3 million |
| Box office | $27.8 million |
