Direct-to-DVD: Sequel Mania!
By Robert Sims, Hollywood.com Staff
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Tuesday, January 27, 2009
9. Beethoven’s Big Break
Cast: Jonathan Silverman, Rhea Perlman, Moises Arias, Stephen Tobolowsky, Eddie Griffin
The Verdict: Here’s a novel way of kick-starting a franchise that’s 119 in dog years. This sixth misadventure finds the St. Bernard in Tinseltown making a film called Beethoven. Things get all very Wes Craven’s New Nightmare as Beethoven must win over animal trainer Silverman while his cinematic counterpart torments new owner George Newton (yes, Charles Gordin’s Beethoven character). This allows for the recycling of Beethoven’s funniest moments, though a dognabbing subplot is stolen from Garfield. Kids new to Beethoven will howl with laughter; all others will feel a sense of déjà vu whenever the dog starts slobbering.
Special Features: Commentary with director Mike Elliott, Silverman and Arias; Deleted Scenes; Gag Reel; How Did They Do That?! and Moises Steals the Show features.
Stars: 2 out of 5
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