When I first heard the phrase “Air Bud” growing up, I thought it was in reference to a “Top Gun” sequel. Boy was I wrong — at least mostly. To be honest, I’m not sure why there isn’t a “Flight Buddies” yet, but I have a feeling Tom Cruise would be more than willing to lend his voice.
I’ve taken it upon myself to watch all 14 movies throughout the past few weeks, and I’m proud to finally present the definitive, top 10 “Air Bud” rankings list.
Why was this written? Well, with the Oscars quickly approaching, this is the perfect pallet cleanser before a critical review of 2018’s nominees — which honestly, may not even be as great as the films on this list. This is cinema’s finest.
Max Rothenberg | Argonaut
1. “Air Bud”
What more can be said about the original? “Air Bud” was the inspiration for a series spanning more than 16 years — or 112 dog years. Not only is Josh’s relationship with Buddy a treat to watch develop, but this may be the most believable movie on the list.
2. “Space Buddies”
On the opposite end of the believability spectrum is this entry, chock full of iconic scenes such as B-Dawg walking on the moon or a ferret contacting their spacecraft via mission control. The name speaks for itself.
2. “Super Buddies”
For superhero fans disappointed in the last few “Fantastic Four” outings, look no further. Not only are the puppies’ powers identical, but the plot somehow manages to become even more convoluted. A supervillain disguised as a pig also steals a car.
6. “Air Bud: Seventh Inning Fetch”
I had more fun watching this than any baseball movie in recent memory. That’s right, Buddy takes to the major leagues once again, but this time with a baseball bat in his mouth. Buddy’s puppies also disappear, but that’s second fiddle to the MLB.
5. “Air Buddies”
Many thought the series would stop at five — maybe it should have. Regardless, these mischievous buddies reinvigorated a concept quickly becoming stale, resulting in another decade of talking dogs. Here’s to many more.
6. “Air Bud: World Pup”
If the rest of these films are dramatic period pieces, “World Pup” can only be described as romance at its finest. Buddy quickly falls for Molly, another golden retriever, and the two have six offspring. Even amidst saving his pups from the evil Snerbert, Buddy still somehow manages to lead his team to a state championship.
7. “Santa Buddies”
It’s around this point we get into the weird stuff. I agree with critics that Puppy Paws’ decision making is lackluster, and he almost singlehandedly ruins Christmas. Buried amidst this festive film, however, is a tale of holiday spirit and identity.
8. “Snow Buddies”
I know what you’re thinking — why is there a Siberian Husky on the poster? Shasta, the puppy in question, is a surprisingly welcome addition to the franchise, and teaches the buddies the valuable skill of dog sledding. The hardest pill to swallow simply comes in the form of these dogs behaving on the long flight back from Alaska.
9. “Air Bud: Golden Receiver”
In addition to having the best name, “Golden Receiver” embodies everything great about the franchise. It was released as a “sports comedy,” somehow grossed $10 million and reached an incredible 21 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Not only does Buddy play football, but he’s also kidnapped by Russians planning to use him in the circus. This may very well be the most well-rounded film in the franchise.
10. “Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups”
I don’t particularly care for the Santa Paws spinoffs — there, I said it. The films just don’t quite have the magic of their predecessors and “Christmas spirit” can only hold up in court so many times before a judge finds it guilty. Thankfully for the final entry on this list, positives include an all-new group of Santa pups, an abundance of snowy paws and “The Great Christmas Icicle.” The icicle is as magical as the title suggests.
11. “Treasure Buddies”
We’ve been spoiled by Indiana Jones. This is a perfectly fine adventure film, but is simply lacking the X-factor Harrison Ford provides. Apparently, the buddies’ great grandfather was an archaeologist, so that’s pretty neat.
12. “Spooky Buddies”
Howlloween films can be hit or miss, but “Spooky Buddies” delivers a decent enough take on the genre. Only a certain level of fright is acceptable in a G-rated setting, and this is a contributing factor toward the film’s downfall. Additionally, there’s just too much magic and lack of believability. I’ve personally never seen a dog wandering around outside on Halloween.
13. “Air Bud: Spikes Back”
It’s well known that volleyball pales in comparison to other sports. This fact, combined with the lack of actual volleyball in the film, drags it down a notch. And if that wasn’t enough, Josh is away at college playing football, a sport Buddy most likely prefers.
14. “The Search for Santa Paws”
Rounding out the list is another film where Santa suspiciously loses his memory. Also, Paws must try to get others to believe in Christmas. Also, Santa is in danger of becoming mortal. Even for a film about talking dogs, there are a few too many cliches present. Stick to what works — maybe a Thanksgiving theme could be the next outing?
Max Rothenberg can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @theRothenberg