Is Underdog Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Underdog is likely a skip if you enjoy Family movies.
It features a runtime of 82 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Underdog Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2007, Underdog emerges as a significant entry in the Family, Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Science Fiction domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A lab accident gives a beagle named Shoeshine some serious superpowers -- a secret that the dog eventually shares with the young boy who becomes his owner and friend. Unlike standard genre fare, Underdog attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Family is often anchored by its ensemble, and Underdog features a noteworthy lineup led by Jason Lee . Supported by the likes of Peter Dinklage and Jim Belushi , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Underdog (2007) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Underdog Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Underdog is a Family, Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Science Fiction film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The film presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. A lab accident gives a beagle named Shoeshine some serious superpowers -- a secret that the dog eventually shares with the young boy who becomes his owner and friend. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Underdog Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Underdog attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to family resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the family themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Underdog reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Underdog?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Family films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Underdog Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $25.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $65.3M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Underdog Budget
The estimated production budget for Underdog is $25.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Underdog
- Jason Lee – Shoeshine / Underdog (voice)
- Peter Dinklage – Dr. Simon Barsinister
- Jim Belushi – Dan Unger
- Patrick Warburton – Cad
- Alex Neuberger – Jack Unger
Top Highlights
Jason LeeShoeshine / Underdog (voice)
Peter DinklageDr. Simon Barsinister
Jim BelushiDan Unger
Patrick WarburtonCad
Alex NeubergerJack Unger
Taylor MomsenMolly
John SlatteryMayor
Amy AdamsPolly Purebred (voice)
Brad GarrettRiff Raff (voice)
Samantha BeePrincipal
Where to Watch Underdog Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Google Play Movies
YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Google Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Underdog is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, Underdog stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2007 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Underdog movie hit or flop?
Underdog has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Underdog worth watching?
Underdog is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Family, Action, Adventure movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Underdog online?
Underdog may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How Underdog Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Underdog
Begins well, but soon deteriotiates into a disappointment - culminating with an incredibly forced 'gag reel' in the end credits. 'Underdog' means well and is, in all honesty, a harmless 81 minute film. As touched on, it does start off fairly promisingly. I liked how Peter Dinklage and Patrick Warburton were introduced, while the set up for the dog isn't as bad as it could've been. It does other decent things, like the effects for Underdog are solid and the quippy, rhyme-filled dialogue for him actually, somehow, works. However, it ultimately suffers from tedious story creation and execution. As the film goes on, I felt less and less interested in the premise and also nonplussed about the superhero dog - the gimmick wears off quick, even for what is a short production. The end shebang is also very boring. I can't say I disliked this majorly, to be fair. It's just a poor and forgettable 2007 film from Disney.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
