Beethoven’s 3rd (2000) Movie Review
“Beethoven’s 3rd,” released in 2000 and directed by David M. Evans, is the third installment in the popular family comedy series centered around the lovable St. Bernard, Beethoven. Starring Judge Reinhold, Julia Sweeney, and Joe Pichler, the film continues the adventures of the mischievous canine, Beethoven, and his human family as they navigate new challenges and comedic situations. Although it may not have the same impact as its predecessors, “Beethoven’s 3rd” remains a fun and family-friendly film.
Plot Summary
In “Beethoven’s 3rd,” the lovable St. Bernard is back, and this time, he finds himself on a road trip with the Newton family. The film begins with the Newtons preparing for a cross-country vacation, and Beethoven is excited to join them. However, things take a turn when Beethoven’s rambunctious behavior causes chaos during their journey.
The Newton family, including father George (Judge Reinhold), mother Alice (Julia Sweeney), and their three children, must deal with Beethoven’s antics as they travel in their RV. The film introduces a new subplot involving a rival family, the Grangers, who are competing with the Newtons in a series of humorous challenges and competitions.
Throughout their trip, Beethoven’s misadventures lead to a series of comedic situations, including encounters with various characters, mishaps involving the RV, and a series of pranks and antics. Despite the chaos, the Newtons and Beethoven ultimately learn valuable lessons about family, teamwork, and the importance of embracing each other’s quirks.
Analysis and Review
“Beethoven’s 3rd” continues the franchise’s tradition of family-friendly humor and heartwarming moments. The film’s charm lies in its ability to entertain audiences of all ages with its light-hearted and comedic approach. The beloved St. Bernard remains a central figure in the film, and his antics provide plenty of laughs.
Judge Reinhold and Julia Sweeney return as the Newtons, bringing familiarity and warmth to their roles. Their performances contribute to the film’s family-friendly atmosphere, and their interactions with Beethoven add to the comedic appeal.
The film’s humor is primarily geared towards children, with slapstick comedy and playful situations taking center stage. While the film may lack the depth and originality of the first two installments, it effectively delivers a light-hearted and entertaining experience for young viewers and families.
Director David M. Evans manages to maintain the franchise’s charm while introducing new elements to keep the story fresh. The road trip setting provides a new backdrop for Beethoven’s misadventures, and the film’s various comedic scenarios keep the plot engaging.
However, “Beethoven’s 3rd” received mixed reviews from critics, with some noting that the film’s humor and storyline may feel repetitive compared to its predecessors. Despite this, the film remains a solid choice for families looking for a fun and enjoyable movie experience.
Legacy and Impact
“Beethoven’s 3rd” continues the legacy of the beloved St. Bernard series, offering a familiar and entertaining experience for fans of the franchise. While it may not stand out as a groundbreaking film, its comedic appeal and family-friendly themes contribute to its status as a fun and accessible choice for viewers of all ages.
The film’s focus on family values, humor, and the antics of a lovable dog makes it a suitable addition to family movie nights and a pleasant continuation of the Beethoven series.
Streaming Services and Availability
For those interested in watching “Beethoven’s 3rd,” the film is available on various streaming platforms. As of now, you can stream or purchase the movie on:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rental or purchase.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
Conclusion
“Beethoven’s 3rd” (2000) is a family comedy that continues the adventures of the lovable St. Bernard and the Newton family. Directed by David M. Evans, the film offers a light-hearted and entertaining experience with its humorous road trip setting and playful antics. While it may not have the same impact as its predecessors, it remains a fun and enjoyable choice for families and fans of the franchise.
