Skip to content
What's After the Movie?
Sports documentary

Underdog (2023): Cast, Ratings & Ending

Underdog (2023) movie poster

Underdog is a 2023 sports documentary directed by Tommy Hyde, starring Doug Butler. It runs 1 hour 22 minutes. Critics gave it 15% on Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb users rate it 8.9/10.

IMDb rating
8.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes
15%
Echo Score
50
Loading streaming availability…
Underdog (2023) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 22m (82 min)
Director
Tommy Hyde
Genres
Sport , Documentary
Original language
English
After the credits
Yes Extra scene during or after the credits
The story

What Is Underdog About?

The premise of Underdog without spoilers. The whole story and the ending explained are in the plot summary further down.

This action-packed documentary follows an extraordinary dog who gains superpowers after a laboratory accident. Becoming an unlikely hero, he protects Capitol City and his love interest, Polly Purebred, from the villainous scientist Simon Barsinister and his formidable henchman. The film showcases his journey as he embraces his newfound abilities to safeguard the city from harm.

Underdog Themes & Keywords

· 1 tag
  • dog
Loading streaming availability…
Cast & crew

Underdog Cast

Doug Butler stars in Underdog. Directed by Tommy Hyde.

Ratings

Underdog Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Underdog 15% on Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb users rate it 8.9/10. Our Echo Score gives it 50/100, strongest in character & emotion (55) and weakest in story & flow (40).

50 /100

Underdog Echo Score Breakdown

Underdog delivers a mixed viewing experience, resonating modestly with younger audiences while falling short for broader viewers. Critics point to a thin narrative and reliance on familiar tropes, whereas some audience members praise its charm and occasional humor. The film’s technical execution is unremarkable, and its replay value hinges on personal nostalgia. Overall, the movie sits near the midpoint of the scale, reflecting its uneven strengths and weaknesses.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 45

    In terms of art and craft, the film shows little visual distinction. Reviewers note clumsy CGI and a lack of cinematic flourishes, suggesting an uninspired production design. The editing does not compensate for the stretched runtime, and there is no standout direction. Consequently, the technical execution is perceived as mediocre.

  • Character & Emotion 55

    When evaluating character and emotion, performances are deemed serviceable but not memorable. Voice work for the titular dog receives mild appreciation, yet overall acting lacks depth. Some audience members find the characters endearing, especially for children, while critics see limited emotional resonance. The net impression is an average, modestly engaging cast.

  • Story & Flow 40

    Story and flow emerge as the film’s weakest pillar. Critics describe the plot as drab, overly reliant on clichés, and resembling extended filler rather than a cohesive narrative. Originality is scarce, and pacing feels uneven, leading to frequent boredom. Although a few reviewers acknowledge a heartwarming premise, the dominant sentiment is that the story fails to engage.

  • Sensory Experience 45

    Sensory experience receives limited praise. The soundtrack and sound design are not highlighted, and visual style offers no notable innovation. A handful of reviewers mention clumsy CGI, reinforcing a perception of an average auditory-visual package. Overall, the sensory elements are viewed as competent but unremarkable.

  • Rewatch Factor 55

    Rewatch factor varies across the audience. Some users express enjoyment on repeat viewings, citing humor and nostalgic appeal for younger viewers. Critics, however, see little incentive to revisit due to the film’s filler nature. The mixed feedback results in a modest rewatch value, suggesting occasional repeat enjoyment chiefly for fans of the genre.

Plot

Underdog Plot Summary & Ending Explained

What happens in Underdog from start to finish, spoilers included, with a timeline of 11 key events and the ending explained. The opening is below; the full summary is a 2-minute read.

Spoilers ahead

Doug Butler is a resilient dairy farmer from Vermont whose quirky love for dog mushing adds a unique flair to his life. He is quite the local legend, showcasing a natural affinity for handling cows, dogs, and engaging with people, bringing joy to those around him. As he trains his motley pack of mutts on his family farm, Doug nurtures a dream to compete in the world championships in Alaska. His youthful spirit revitalizes him, seemingly wiping away the weary lines etched on his sixty-five-year-old face.

Full summary

The whole story of Underdog, scene by scene, with the ending explained

Read the full summary
Videos

Underdog Trailers & Videos

The trailer of Underdog.

Down Underdogs | Trailer | India's Greatest Comeback
Quiz

How Well Do You Know Underdog?

10 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.

Question 1 of 10

  1. Question 1: not answered
  2. Question 2: not answered
  3. Question 3: not answered
  4. Question 4: not answered
  5. Question 5: not answered
  6. Question 6: not answered
  7. Question 7: not answered
  8. Question 8: not answered
  9. Question 9: not answered
  10. Question 10: not answered

What is Doug Butler's unconventional hobby?

Details

Underdog Also Known As

Also known as “O Falcão, გაიქეცი რო იცოცხლო”.

Also known as
  • O Falcão, გაიქეცი რო იცოცხლო

Seen Underdog?

FAQ

Underdog FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date

Runtime, release date, director, cast, ratings and post-credit scenes of Underdog, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Underdog?

Underdog runs 1 hour 22 minutes (82 minutes).

When was Underdog released?

Underdog was released on August 10, 2023.

Who directed Underdog?

Underdog was directed by Tommy Hyde.

Who is in the cast of Underdog?

Underdog stars Doug Butler.

How is Underdog rated?

Underdog has 8.9/10 on IMDb, 15% on Rotten Tomatoes, 95% on TMDB and 3.4/5 on Letterboxd.

Does Underdog have a post-credit scene?

Yes. Underdog has an extra scene during or after the credits, so it is worth staying seated.

Coming soon to your phone

The Plot Explained Movie Summary App

From blockbusters to hidden gems: plot summaries, endings explained and timelines on your phone. Save your favorites and never miss a twist again.

Be the first to know when it launches. Your email stays private, always. Learn more about the app