Air Bud

A lonely boy befriends a stray dog who has a natural talent for basketball and together they experience the highs and lows of life as their friendship remains solid through a series of escapades.

Critics were divided, but the film’s family-friendly premise and emotional appeal connected strongly with audiences.

• Josh is rebounding from his father's accidental death while forming a close bond with Buddy and finding a place on the basketball team.
• Buddy's extraordinary basketball ability drives the halftime performances, media attention, and much of the film's humor.
• Newly arrived and socially shy, Josh connects with Buddy and eventually joins the school basketball team.
• Buddy's former owner, Norm Snively, returns with a scheme to cash in on the dog's celebrity and threatens the boy-and-dog bond.

• The Sandlotfamily sports comedy centered on an unlikely animal talent and a child’s growing confidence
• Because of Winn-Dixiewarm child-and-dog friendship, family adversity, and uplifting emotional stakes
• Little Giantsfamily-friendly underdog sports story combining comic spectacle with teamwork and perseverance
• Babeheartwarming animal-centered family comedy with a young protagonist facing separation threats

Director

Charles Martin Smith

Release Date

1997-08-01

Runtime

98 min

Rating

5.6 / 10 (542)

What is Air Bud about?

A grieving, shy boy finds confidence and belonging when a gifted stray golden retriever becomes his basketball partner and unexpected local star.

What is Air Bud like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Air Bud as brisk, its intensity as mild and its storytelling as simple.

Is Air Bud violent?

No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in Air Bud.

What did critics think of Air Bud?

Critics were divided, but the film’s family-friendly premise and emotional appeal connected strongly with audiences.

Which films are like Air Bud?

Films with a similar feel include The Sandlot, Because of Winn-Dixie, Little Giants, and Babe.

How long is Air Bud?

Air Bud runs 98 minutes.

Where can I watch Air Bud?

In United States, Air Bud streams on Fawesome.