MOVIE REVIEW
Powder Pup
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Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Family
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Ari Novak
Writer(s): Ari Novak, Mike Manning, Miriam Rodgers
Cast: Ashton Arbab, Jay Mohr, Mike Manning, Joey Diaz, Maiah Wynne, Morgan Harvill, Rob Hillis
Where To Watch: on Demand and Digital from Lionsgate on March 26, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Let's take a trip from the sunny, laid-back vibes of Southern California to the crisp, snowy landscapes of Montana; POWDER PUP shares with us the story of Shaun (Ashton Arbab,) a teen finding his footing in a new, frost-covered environment. His unexpected friendship with Bodi (voiced by Joey Diaz), a bulldog with a penchant for snowboarding, promises an adventure filled with heart and humor. Yet, as they glide toward local snowboarding glory, the film sometimes struggles, often circling back to familiar comedic territory instead of breaking fresh snow. Don’t get me wrong, if you’re watching a film named POWDER PUP about a talking dog that likes snowboarding; you must set your expectations appropriately.

POWDER PUP banks heavily on its novelty - a snowboarding bulldog meant to draw laughs and awe. While Bodi's slopeside antics aim to be the highlight reel, they don’t break much new ground, making the film a little repetitive. This overreliance on Bodi, his story, and his boarding skills overshadow the more human elements of the story, such as Shaun's growth and the potential for richer character interactions. Director Ari Novak is known for his canine-centric storytelling (this isn’t the first time he’s worked on a film featuring talking animals), and the film manages to carve out some new trails in the snow.

Yet, amidst the flurry of some snowy moments, Maiah Wynne's portrayal of Kayla Cooper shines. Her performance adds depth and warmth to the chilly surroundings, representing what could have been if the film had explored its characters more deeply. The dynamic between her and Morgan Harvill's Madison Green teases a depth that POWDER PUP hesitates to explore, hinting at a missed chance to delve into themes of resilience, connection, and the nuances of friendship (and the rough slopes one can encounter.)

POWDER PUP ultimately struggles to balance its heartwarming intentions and comedic aspirations. While it sets out to deliver a fun, family-friendly romp through the snow, it often hits a few trees with repetition and a lack of narrative depth. Despite these setbacks, it remains a harmless, amusing escapade that's not without its charms. The relationship between Shaun and Bodi, some genuinely warm performances throughout, and a predictable yet fun story make this a welcomed addition to the genre.

POWDER PUP highlights the challenges of blending elements such as sports action and animal comedy in crafting a story as unique as a snowboarding bulldog. A more nuanced approach to storytelling, character development, and humor could have elevated this film from a mere winter diversion to a memorable journey through the trials of change and the magic of finding friendship in unexpected places. The brief moments of genuine connection and emotional insight, particularly from Cooper and Harvill, suggest a path less traveled that led to a more engaging and impactful cinematic experience.

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[photo courtesy of LIONSGATE]

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