5.6 | / 10 |
Users | 0.0 | |
Reviewer | 3.5 | |
Overall | 3.5 |
Adorable golden retriever puppies Rosebud, Buddha, Budderball, B-Dawg, and Mudbud return in an epic adventure that takes them farther than they ever dreamed. In a delightful new escapade, the inquisitive pooches travel to the moon in search of a dream, only to realize that what they want is back on earth. Moving at warp speed, dodging asteroids and more, the Buddies and their two new friends, Spudnick, a sweet bull terrier and Gravity, a resourceful ferret, must summon their courage and ingenuity to launch plans for a moon landing and a rocketing trip back home. Will they have the right stuff? Overflowing with intergalactic action and heart, 'Space Buddies' is an inspiring tale of teamwork, and loyalty that celebrates the journey of life and the friendships made along the way. It’s Buddy-loving fun the whole family will enjoy again and again.
Starring: Bill Fagerbakke, Kevin Weisman, Lochlyn Munro, Ali Hillis, Pat FinnFamily | 100% |
Sci-Fi | Insignificant |
Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC
Video resolution: 1080p
Aspect ratio: 1.78:1
Original aspect ratio: 1.78:1
English: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1
English SDH
50GB Blu-ray Disc
Single disc (1 BD)
Bonus View (PiP)
BD-Live
Region A (B, C untested)
Movie | 2.5 | |
Video | 4.0 | |
Audio | 4.0 | |
Extras | 2.0 | |
Overall | 3.5 |
Take a deep breath, Blu-ray fanatics; the most anticipated title of 2009, for the five to ten- year-old demographic, has finally found its way onto everyone’s favorite video format. Space Buddies is the very definition of a critic-proof movie. Nothing I can say about this puppies-in-outer-space children’s movie could possibly detract from the sheer enjoyment that the film will provide for its intended audience. In an attempt at seeing the movie through the eyes of a viewer who is a member of the film’s target audience, I’ve enlisted the assistance of my five-year-old cousin, Steven. Steven’s extensive film background includes such highlights as: falling asleep during Star Wars, Sleeping Beauty and Mission to Mars, the latter of which had the same effect on me; enjoying The Incredibles, Madagascar and Shrek as well as having been to Disney World. Steven has also screened the previous “Buddies” movies on several occasions and has described those experiences as both “cool” and “fun.” This review will be somewhat like a live hockey broadcast; I’ll be providing the play-by- play while Steven handles the color commentary. Onward!
One small leap for Dog, One giant leap for dogkind.
Steven was immediately impressed with the video quality of Space Buddies. In fact, there were several occasions where I had to ask him to not touch the projector screen. Space Buddies is presented in 1.78:1, full 1080p and has been encoded with the AVC Mpeg-4 codec. This is certainly not the sharpest video encode I've ever seen. In fact, the entire movie has a slightly soft look to it. Perhaps this is a side effect of a lower effects budget or just a stylistic choice. Either way, it didn't bother Steven, who wanted, time and again, to pet Buddha whenever the dog was on screen. I managed to distract him for a while by trying to task him in helping me find edge enhancement, macroblocking or any other picture anomalies. Neither of us found any and Steven was quick to point out that our quest was "dumb." That's the spirit, Steven! Regardless, this is an above average, colorful and ultimately pleasing transfer.
Space Buddies is an action themed kids flick, so it should come as no surprise to anyone that it features a pretty rockin' soundtrack. Steven was also impressed, though he often felt that the movie was turned up too loud. "Ouch!" was the typical exclamation, followed by a comical cupping of his hands over his ears. Once volume levels were to his satisfaction, Steven seemed to really enjoy the 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio surround track. He would frequently flip his head around as he followed sound around the room and, oftentimes, he grinned from ear to ear. For me, the audio was definitely above average with nicely reproduced dialogue and active surround usage. All-in-all, this is well presented track that both Steven and I enjoyed. Recommended!
Here's what's included:
- Buddy Facts
- Buddy Bloopers
- "Dancing in the Moonlight" Music Video Featuring Disney's Alyson Stoner
- Disneypedia: The Buddies'Guide to Space Travel
- Buddy Finder
Perhaps Steven is a bit too young for supplements; many of the features included on
Space Buddies made him a little restless. First up, the Buddy Facts track displays
trivia throughout the duration of the film. Buddy Bloopers is just that: a series of gags and
flubbed takes. Buddy Finder is an interactive scavenger hunt that takes place during the
movie. The Buddies Guide to Space Travel offers a short documentary and a history lesson
on the space program. Finally, the set includes a music video for Disney Channel star Alyson
Stoner's take on "Dancing in the Moonlight." I have no idea who Alyson Stoner is, but
Steven seemed to recognize her. So, Steven would have rather watched the film than the
supplements, but Disney has done an admirable job in putting together as much of a
comprehensive set as could be expected for a straight to video feature.
Steven said it best when proclaiming that Space Buddies was full of "pretty dogs."
Yes, the dogs are cute and the entire scenario of the film is a pet-friendly kid's dream. While
not particularly interesting to adults, Space Buddies triumphs in entertaining kids for
its full 84 minute run time. It's also a good-natured movie with a cheerful premise. Steven
is hooked. His final request to me on the day we reviewed the film was "can I have it?"
Unfortunately, Steven went home empty handed that day, but as soon as his Mom and Dad
pony up
for a Blu-ray player, i'll consider loaning it to him. Space Buddies is good, clean fun
that is sure to delight
children. For them, it is highly recommended!
For Adults:
Movie: 2.5 Stars
Video: 4 Stars
Audio: 4 Stars
Supplements: 2 Stars
Overall: 3.5 Stars
For kids:
5 stars across the board.
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