The Legend of Santa Paws DVD

By Christopher Gildemeister

Release Date: November 23, 2010

MPAA rating: PG for brief mild language

Starring: Richard Riehle, Kaitlyn Maher, John Ducey, Bonnie Summerville, voice of Zachary Gordon

Recommended age: 3+

Overall PTC Traffic Light Rating: Green

Paws is Santa’s best friend, a stuffed dog magically brought to life by Santa’s elves. When Santa and Paws visit New York, Santa loses his memory and wanders off, launching Paws on a desperate search to find him. Along the way, Paws and the amnesiac Santa encounter the wicked, Christmas-hating Ms. Stoat, who runs a home for orphaned girls; Quinn and Will, two girls desperate to break free of Ms. Stoat’s mean control; James and Kate Hucklebuckle, a young couple who run a toy store, but want a child most of all; Gus, a conniving crook; a Scout troop; and a band of stray dogs. Will the magic of Christmas draw them all together for a happy ending?

There is no content to concern parents in The Legend of Santa Paws. In the traditional “wicked stepmother” role, Ms. Stoat takes away her girls’ toys, makes them sleep in a dingy basement without dinner and suchlike, and once briefly pulls Will’s hair. There are several chases and “nick-of-time” moments, but none presenting any danger that would frighten most children. At one point, a stray dog urinates on a woman’s shoe.

The Legend of Santa Paws is the latest in Disney’s DVD “Buddy” series, featuring a variety of talking dogs (Air Bud, Santa Buddies, and so forth) who have adventures. DVD bonuses include an introduction to the various canine “buddies,” deleted scenes, a sing-along feature, and a music video.

With a strong Christmas theme, a heart-warming story, and several songs, this DVD will make a delightful stocking-stuffer for young viewers. The Parents Television Council is proud to award The Legend of Santa Paws with the PTC Seal of Approval^TM. The PTC recommends this DVD for viewers over age three.