Robotic Canine Steals the Show in Family Adventure

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MOVIE REVIEW
R.A.D.A.R.: The Adventures of the Bionic Dog
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Genre: Family
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 25m
Director(s): Scott Vandiver
Writer(s): April Smallwood
Cast: Dean Cain, Ezra Lerario, Paul Wilson
Where To Watch: available now On Demand and Digital from Lionsgate

RAVING REVIEW: Strap in, folks! We're about to embark on a family-friendly journey with R.A.D.A.R.: THE ADVENTURES OF THE BIONIC DOG, where we dive into a town's local lore, chase after hidden treasures, and, yes, frolic with a robotic canine! This movie is a wild ride, filled with laughs and hi-tech hijinks.

In sunny Florida, we meet Gabe (Ezra James Lerario) and Kylie (Caroline Elle Abrams,) two vibrant youngsters on a mission not only for the thrill of adventure but to save their beloved local diner from financial distress. Their quest quickly becomes more intricate when they stumble upon a brilliant sapphire and simultaneously draw the attention of an evil scientist. His interest, however, isn't merely in the gem but in the four-legged, mechanized marvel, R.A.D.A.R., who he created and now aids the kids.

R.A.D.A.R., the show's leading…er, doggo, is no ordinary Fido. This bionic dog, a sci-fi twist on man's best friend, takes center stage alongside Gabe and Kylie as they traverse the twists and turns of their treasure hunt. The result? An unexpected medley of comedy, intrigue, and family-friendly excitement that's bound to tickle your ribs, though it might not win the Palm d'Or.

We've got a star-studded line-up here! Dean Cain, who left an indelible mark with his earlier portrayal of the Man of Steel, steps into the role of the town's mayor. But it's not all about the humans in this tale. R.A.D.A.R., performed by Radar Beck, a Belgian Malinois hailing from Plant City, steals the show multiple times. Comedic support flows in from Dr. Van Hook (Paul Wilson) and Dobbins (Ricky Wayne,) who add the right amount of hilarity as clumsy villains.

We introduce a trope, 'mad scientist,' the creator of our mechanized hero, R.A.D.A.R. It appears the metallic pooch was initially designed to unearth pirate treasures. In a heartwarming plot twist, R.A.D.A.R becomes more than just circuits and gears. The dog develops emotionally, becoming a loyal friend to Gabe and Kylie. Together, they form a formidable team, defending the precious sapphire from the scheming scientist and his assistant.

Our antagonist, the eccentric Dr. Van Hook, is initially introduced as the architect of the wondrous bionic dog, R.A.D.A.R. His original intent was to recover Spanish doubloons along Florida's coast. However, when R.A.D.A.R. unexpectedly develops feelings and forms a bond with the children. He must devise a way to regain control over R.A.D.A.R. and the gem.

Overall, R.A.D.A.R.: THE ADVENTURES OF THE BIONIC DOG blends nostalgia with modern humor, providing a moderately entertaining cinematic experience. But with a relatively low budget, the film's concept of a robotic dog could have been executed better – instead of lasers and sped-up footage. Ultimately, it feels more like a hastily assembled weekend project than a polished product. It might not be a gem in the movie industry, but it's a gleaming sapphire in family-friendly fun!

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[photo courtesy of LIONSGATE]