Old Dogs
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures | Release Date: November 25, 2009
5.0
USER SCORE
Mixed or average reviews based on 128 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
50
Mixed:
24
Negative:
54
Watch Now
Stream On
Buy on
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Expand
Review this movie
VOTE NOW
 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Check box if your review contains spoilers 0 characters (5000 max)

User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
2
ChadSDec 1, 2009
With the start of Vicki's prison term nearing, the environmental activist's two kids need a babysitter while their mom does time in a state penitentary. It's a good thing that mom's one night stand wrote. Of all the With the start of Vicki's prison term nearing, the environmental activist's two kids need a babysitter while their mom does time in a state penitentary. It's a good thing that mom's one night stand wrote. Of all the people in the world, who better than your shotgun husband, a man you divorced after the liquor turned to pee and never saw again in the proceeding seven years, to feed and dress your flesh and blood. Money, notwithstanding, this man was a twenty-four-hour husband, but that's the movies for you. "Old Dogs", aside from being stupid, is also, formally, one of those films where childless professionals discover the joys of parenthood after pursuing successful careers in their respective fields. Robin Williams plays Dan, the dad, and John Travolta plays Charlie, the unwilling uncle-type; they're sports marketers who, in one uncomic comic scene, smear bear poop beneath their eyes by accident, then inexplicably, leave it on, as if both men forgot that animal excrement is gross. As Dan, Williams seemingly returns to those habitual heartwarming roles that moviegoers thought he had sworn off from taking after his career redefining performances in Mark Romanek's "One Hour Photo" and Christopher Nolan's "Insomnia". This fondness for excessive heartrendering(or is that heart-bludgeoning) theatrics(five words: enema bulb as faux-nose) carries on, but only ostensibly so, as in one scene, where Dan, dressed as a king, has tea with his princess-costumed daughter, which on closer inspection, avoids saccharine sweetness Curiously enough, Dan is in a full-bodied puppet suit, and under Charlie's control. The scene plays like a cry for help. After all, somebody is making Williams have this tender moment with a child actor. There's some anger here, dressed up as slapstick comedy, in which Dan maims a hand model's hands, and Seth Green's balls. And as for Travolta: Has it really been almost thirty years since he slapped around Debra Winger in "Urban Cowboy"?… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful
0
calebTDec 13, 2009
This movie.......this movie should be renamed ouch my balls. Yes like that show on Idiocracy. Becuase thats all it was. Painful slapstick humor. This movie is bad. I mean it. It is awful. Its not just the fact that it was even worse than This movie.......this movie should be renamed ouch my balls. Yes like that show on Idiocracy. Becuase thats all it was. Painful slapstick humor. This movie is bad. I mean it. It is awful. Its not just the fact that it was even worse than WIld Hogs. Its not just the fact that it has no plot. Its not just the fact it has no character development or even the fact that the jokes are not funny at all. The worst thing about this film is the wasted talent. A movie must be awful if it has Seth Green, Justin Long, Robin WIlliams, John Travolta, and Dax Sheppard, and it still fails to make me crack a smile. Even more idiotic is the fact that they are fixtated on dogs in this movie. They have all these dogs in scenes that there should be no dogs just for the reaction shot. Like when somebody says something odd and the dog looks up and makes a noise. Hey, I have an idea for a drinking game. Take a shot every time a dog has a reaction shot. OOOOHHH even HARDER drinking game. Take a shot for every scene in this movie that sucks...I'm sorry but DIsney, you need to try harder. I saw Up. I saw Bedtime Stories. And I saw Princess and the Frog. I know you guys can make a decent movie if you try. So please, next time, put some effort in it.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
1
NavyBeanNov 25, 2009
Who says Robin Williams and John Travolta aren't comic actors? I did laugh in sympathy.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
5
grandpajoe6191Sep 24, 2011
I admit the movie has big flaws, but in the end its a heart warm family movie with Travolta and Robbins on the run.
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
All this user's reviews
7
BenGNov 25, 2009
Took my 12 and 7 year old grandsons to see it. They gave it a hearty thumbs up. I thought it was OK. I think the critics may have forgotten it wasn't intended to entertain old critics.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
1
JohnJan 25, 2010
Trust me: This is a bad, bad movie.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
8
SandyNov 25, 2009
My husband & I enjoyed this movie & thought it was funny. The whole theater was laughing during the whole movie.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
AndreaGNov 26, 2009
A total train wreck.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
1
mrcriticOct 24, 2010
Wow. I've never seen such a disappointing movie ever. Travolta and Williams fail to get any laughs from adults or kids. Bernie Mac, you could have gotten a better farewell. RIP bernie
1 of 5 users found this helpful14
All this user's reviews
10
FallanBJan 5, 2010
Rather than be boring and agreeable like the rest of you who don't appear to have an original thought among you, how about you go make a better movie. Old Dogs was light and funny, the way I am sure it was meant to be. Any of you Rather than be boring and agreeable like the rest of you who don't appear to have an original thought among you, how about you go make a better movie. Old Dogs was light and funny, the way I am sure it was meant to be. Any of you 'expert critics' earning the same bucks as Travolta in the brilliant movies you have made lately?… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
10
AndyCMar 1, 2010
A cinematic tour de force. A masterpiece that will eclipse all other films and revolutionize the industry. May seem a little early but..... I smell OSCAR!!!! Watching this was like seeing the face of god!
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
DavidFDec 3, 2009
A little part of me died having watched this film. All these positive user reviews from John G etc - which PR or movie company are you working for guys? Seriously - you are all bogus and your reviews are paid-for bogus rubbish.
0 of 2 users found this helpful
10
RonaldJan 10, 2010
This movie really makes me laugh!! Is for enjoying with the family.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
JBellJan 3, 2010
A revolting excuse for a "film" which could only be recommended to the intellectually handicapped.
0 of 2 users found this helpful
5
DaveBMar 1, 2010
I didn't see this movie so I am giving it the most neutral rating I can. I would, however, like to address Fallan B's comments below. This individual berates those who gave this movie based on the idiom: "Lets see you do better". I didn't see this movie so I am giving it the most neutral rating I can. I would, however, like to address Fallan B's comments below. This individual berates those who gave this movie based on the idiom: "Lets see you do better". Are you kidding? Under this premise, the only ones who can dismiss a movie are actors and directors. Heck, the only ones who can PRAISE a movie are actors and directors. So, if my doctors royally screws up a diagnosis, I habe to keep my mouth shut because I am not a doctor? This is rubbish. Movies are NOT made to be viewed only by directors and actors; they are made to be viewed, AND PAID FOR, by the public. SO yes...our opinion sure does matter, whether it be for or against. The idea that we can only criticize a movie if we are a wealthy actor or director is a lazy and juvenile argument.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
AllanJMar 29, 2010
This movie is hilarious!!!! How do they rate The wild things a high review and this a bad review is beyond me. Some people truly are upside down. This movie made me laugh so hard I almost gagged!!!! Rent it, you won't regret it...
0 of 2 users found this helpful
10
Mr.B.J.Mar 27, 2010
I loved this movie because it had a Gorilla, Recommended!
0 of 2 users found this helpful
10
CorettBNov 25, 2009
I might be the only idiot around. But I think the movie was excellent. Good job guys!!!
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
LaurieLDec 14, 2009
The. Worst. Ever.
0 of 2 users found this helpful
10
AnthonySDec 29, 2009
This is the best movie I have ever seen. this is great. John travolta was like grease lightning.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
8
LeonardRNov 29, 2009
An enjoyable way to spend 88 minutes with my granddaughter. It was full of good old slapstick humor (a la The Three Stooges). A good family movie.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
JodieANov 29, 2009
I found this movie to be hilarious! My mom and I both loved it, and it was refreshing to watch a movie that had no curse words at all.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
9
GingerHDec 12, 2009
I loved this movie. I seem to always love the movies the critics hate.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
6
AarnKrryAug 21, 2010
It sure as hell isn't a one star film. I'd give it a 6/10. It was a decent family film with some genuinely funny moments in. At least it wasn't as boring as something like 2001, with straight tens. I watched it with my family and it was aIt sure as hell isn't a one star film. I'd give it a 6/10. It was a decent family film with some genuinely funny moments in. At least it wasn't as boring as something like 2001, with straight tens. I watched it with my family and it was a pretty nice film to watch. Innocent enough, with plenty of bits of subtle adult humour. It's hardly an oscar-worthy film, but I get annoyed of people jumping on the bandwagon without even watching it, based purely on reviews. You may as well give it a try.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
0
oswaldtherabbitNov 4, 2010
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Old. Dogs. Uhh. OLD. DOGS. UHHHHHHHHHHH.

Old Dogs. **** in your mouth. Old Dogs. **** in your mouth. UHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
1
thecurberJan 31, 2011
Seth green.check Big giant gorilla-check.kid on the toilet farting check. sounds like a real winner dosen't it. This film might as well came out of a dog, because it sure smells like it
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
2
Ridz43Mar 21, 2011
This truly is a bad movie when compared to the moving pictures that movie makers spend hard time making! Sometimes movies need not to be made because they do not portray a purpose!
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
4
RayzorMooseNov 16, 2013
Old Dogs are put down.
The movie easily could have been horrible but just becomes painfully average. As a family movie it succeeds with some clever jokes, but by the end it collapses under a faulty plot.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
1
CarterMar 2, 2010
Yes, the movie did elicit a chuckle or two from me, but I still have to wonder what Williams and Travolta were thinking when they accepted the roles for this insultingly stupid movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DonnaMNov 30, 2009
I thought it was super funny.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
txrangersfan72Jan 30, 2011
I am beginning to wonder why I can't rate something with ZERO stars. This movie would have definitely be eligible. Quite possibly the longest 88 minutes of my life.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
TheQuietGamerMar 5, 2011
While this movie may miss a few marks it's still enjoyable, bringing humor, and a surprisingly touching story to the table, I had a blast watching this, and while there are a lot better movies out there this is still one I will recommend.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
jp992751Jan 18, 2011
Is it supposed to be an award winning comedy? No of course not, but it is a clean family comedy that delivers all sorts of slapstick and cliche ridden jokes...and guess what if you take it as such it works.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
3
KendylKlownfishApr 14, 2011
It's not overwhelmingly horrid -- like most Disney family comedies tend to be -- but it's certainly far from even mildly diverting. Pros: John Travolta and Robin Williams are as charming as they always are. Cons: As charming as Travolta andIt's not overwhelmingly horrid -- like most Disney family comedies tend to be -- but it's certainly far from even mildly diverting. Pros: John Travolta and Robin Williams are as charming as they always are. Cons: As charming as Travolta and Williams are, the acting is as dull as the film is itself; overwhelmingly generic; overly cliched; lacks laughs and heart.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
0
wordy_actionsAug 20, 2011
If someone likes this movie, they should be considered dangerously stupid and avoided at all costs. If you happen to encounter a fan of this movie you should immediately perform a citizen's arrest on them for the good of public safety. AfterIf someone likes this movie, they should be considered dangerously stupid and avoided at all costs. If you happen to encounter a fan of this movie you should immediately perform a citizen's arrest on them for the good of public safety. After you have successfully handcuffed the brain dead 'movie' 'fan', you should contact the authorities as soon as possible. If the fan begins to speak (surprisingly, some of them can talk) cover your ears. Failing to do so may result in permanent brain damage. If you find yourself having to travel through an area heavily populated by 'fans' of Old Dogs you need to bring the proper equipment. Sound cancelling headphones are a must. Defensive weapons are also useful. Multiple daggers may also be required. If you find yourself surrounded by 'fans' of Old Dog, do not panic! Simply cup your hands around your mouth and yell in several directions. The echoes will confuse them and they will become disoriented. Use this opportunity to cut their hamstrings and escape. Though rare, occasionally they may attempt to pursue you. If this is the case, quickly gather a handful of sticks and rocks and arrange them in a line between you and the 'fans'. Typically they will become so frustrated by this minor obstacle that they will often spontaneously burst into flames. If your skin should come in contact with a 'fan', call poison control. While waiting for the ambulance you should treat the infected area with bleach and gin. If no bleach and/or gin is available, amputate the infected area and pray for god's mercy. If you should accidentally view any portion of the 'movie' Old Dogs the only known antidote is the blood of a Dodo bird. Unfortunately, the Dodo is extinct in our current timeline. Not to worry, as these is a solution. Simply build a time-machine and retrieve a sample. In fact, forget the sample. Just use the time-machine to stop yourself from seeing this movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
3
ZilcellMay 28, 2012
It only had 2 or 3 good laughs. It had potential to be a great comedy but it is plagued with too many problems. Travolta and Williams made the foolish choice to be in this movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
3
Compi24Nov 28, 2012
So cheap, tired, and stale that even its two likable lead actors can't save it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
JappeJul 9, 2013
It was funny i think, especially when they thought, they were grandpas, and when they thought that he had got a "pee pee" :D................................................
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
1
FreedomFightersNov 22, 2016
You know, I had actually forgotten this movie existed until doing this review. As I'm running through 2009 and thinking "wow, so many great films that I loved as an 11-year old. I'd love to go back to 2009," I came across "Old Dogs" andYou know, I had actually forgotten this movie existed until doing this review. As I'm running through 2009 and thinking "wow, so many great films that I loved as an 11-year old. I'd love to go back to 2009," I came across "Old Dogs" and immediately said "Oh, right...that exists." Trust me when I tell you, "Old Dogs" is awful. Even with stars John Travolta and Robin Williams headlining it, the film is dull, boring, painfully unfunny, predictable, and all-around bad. This is another case where my only possible praise is that the film is 88 minutes, but that's 88 minutes you'll never get back. Oh, and the actors at least TRY. Not that their performances are GOOD, but at least they try to save this stinker of a movie. Trust me, this film is an atrocity, and you WILL NOT want to watch it. Just ignore it and move on. Please.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
Meth-dudeDec 2, 2016
The movie wasn't that funny and it was pretty stupid, but it was entertaining enough and it was decent enough for a family flick.It's not the best family movie around, but if you want some brainless entertainment then, you may like it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
3
omotestGumpApr 2, 2023
Williams and Travolta are fine actors, but their careers have taken a turn for the worse in recent years. This comedy, starring the two of them together, is no exception.

It's nice to see big-name actors being amusing. (It's probably theWilliams and Travolta are fine actors, but their careers have taken a turn for the worse in recent years. This comedy, starring the two of them together, is no exception.

It's nice to see big-name actors being amusing. (It's probably the only place you'll ever see Travolta with a drawn face.) However, their hilarious energy doesn't play much of a role in this film. As is often the case in comedies with gorgeous actors (Meet the Fockers. I don't care about the rest.) the producers are so convinced that the movie will sell that they even adopt silly ideas without thinking too hard. Rita Wilson as a hand model who gets her hand caught in the trunk of a Volvo, two people getting bear **** on their faces, Seth Green getting hugged by a gorilla - did you like any of these gags? (They're all silly ideas. I do like Seth Green getting hugged by a gorilla, though.) The gorgeous actors are buried under these unimaginative laughs.

The first part of the film may be fast developing and fun. But since the theme is children, the fast pace is lost and the focus is primarily on the child and their lives together. The child interferes with work, the child sends e-mails to clients without permission, the child switches places on medications that have strong side effects, the child, the child, the child ... the child ... the child ... the child ... the child ... the child. Kids don't do much interesting stuff. In this kind of movie, if the kid gets sick of it, it's no longer good enough.

Williams and Travolta's hilarious energy and the other great actors are buried in the film's silly gag ideas. And the kids, who don't do much of anything funny, are too depressing.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
More From This Movie

19 Critic Reviews

5.0 User Reviews

Details & Credits|Trailers

Current Movie Releases
By MetascoreBy User Score
1 81 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
2 77 Project Hail Mary
3 75 Send Help
4 73 Hoppers
5 72 The Sheep Detectives
SEE ALL
Essential Links
New on Amazon Prime Video
New on Netflix
Coming Soon to DVD/Blu-ray
SEE ALL