Cast
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John Travolta
as Charlie
Robin Williams
as Dan
Kelly Preston
as Vicki
Conner Rayburn
as Zach
Ella Bleu Travolta
as Emily
Lori Loughlin
as Amanda
Seth Green
as Ralph White
Bernie Mac
as Jimmy Lunchbox
Matt Dillon
as Yancy Devlin
Dax Shepard
as Gary - Child Proofer #1
Luis Guzmán
as Nick - Child Proofer #2
Ann-Margret
as Martha
Rita Wilson
as Gloria Lawrence
Justin Long
as Troop Leader Adam
Amy Sedaris
as Condo Woman
Crew
Director
- Walt Becker
Writer
- David Diamond
- David Weissman
Producer
- Peter Abrams
- Robert L. Levy
- Andrew Panay
Reviews
Kamurai
Bad watch, won't watch again, and can't recommend.
I love Robin Williams and Seth Green, but man, I don't know what is wrong with Travolta in this. I'm not a big fan of his to begin with, but he's just a jackass. Not only does he have a jerk character, but he looks like he's phoning it in too. "I'm here, I'm saying the lines."
It wouldn't be so bad if he wasn't the lead character. The movie is about THEIR business, and Robin's character's kids, but personality wise Robin has to play this push over character that can't do anything but take the punches, and he doesn't do abuse humor well. He's known for absurd humor, that the situation is ridiculous and out of control, not that he's suffering from it persay.
I've also always like Robin William's connection to kids and that, at heart, he's a family guy. This character that lives isolated from his kids, that can't be fun was a poor casting for him.
Honestly, looking at the story even, I don't know why anyone decided to make this, unless the right names made it happen, and they just left big blank spaces in the script that said, "something ridiculous and funny" and they just slotted in things like "Seth Green gets adopted by a Guerilla".
Don't waste your time with this unless you're just on a Robin Williams marathon for completionist sake.
Sep 20, 2020
r96sk
I wanted this to be good, but it's anything but.
There is nothing I enjoyed about <em>'Old Dogs'</em>, every second of its 88 minute run time is a hard slog. Robin Williams and John Travolta are the only reasons that I haven't rated this even lower, I'm not saying those two are all that noteworthy in this but their acting ability raises things up ever so slightly.
The premise is incredibly lame and painstakingly predictable, while the comedy is very lazy - I didn't laugh once, there's not even a minutely chucklesome moment. There are some terrible attempted gags in there.
A major disappointment, I wanted to like this due to the two leads but I just couldn't. Dreadful film.
2000s live-action Disney is mental. From the greatness of <em>'Pirates of the Caribbean'</em>, <em>'Holes'</em> and <em>'The Greatest Game Ever Played'</em> to the diabolical <em>'The Country Bears'</em>, <em>'Max Keeble's Big Move'</em> and now this. Rather incredible.
Nov 8, 2020
Thematic Analysis
Old Dogs represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Walt Becker brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Old Dogs took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $35.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Old Dogs shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Over Her Dead Body, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Old Dogs subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Jay and Silent Bob Reboot and No Problem explore similar territory, Old Dogs stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 24, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Budget: $35,000,000
- Revenue: $96,753,696
Where to Watch
