
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SATURDAY, December 18, 1993                   TAG: 9312180080
SECTION: EXTRA                    PAGE: C12   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: MIKE MAYO CORRESPONDENT
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

'BEETHOVEN'S 2ND' IS ENCORE PERFORMANCE

Like the original, "Beethoven's 2nd" is a formula children's comedy that's going to be a big hit with the small-fry.

The best aspects of the first film have been strengthened, and the flaws are gone. The result is an entertaining entry in a series that probably has a few more installments to go. Why not? The filmmakers have put together an irresistible combination with all the appeal (and the limits) of a 1950s TV sitcom - Ozzie and Harriet with a big friendly dog.

For those who came in late, the title character is a loveable St. Bernard who's forever getting into trouble despite his best efforts to be a good dog. He also saves the day whenever his family is threatened.

He belongs to the Newtons, though George (Charles Grodin), the straitlaced father, doesn't think there's room for such a rambunctious pooch. His wife, Alice (Bonnie Hunt), and kids Ryce (Nicholle Tom), Ted (Christopher Castile) and Emily (Sarah Rose Karr) always take Beethoven's side in any family argument. As this movie begins, the big lug falls in love.

When he sees Missy, with her pink bow and collar, in the park, it's love at first sight. Unfortunately for the star-crossed canines, Beethoven's paramour is caught in the middle of a messy divorce. The nasty Regina (Debi Mazar), closely related to Cruella De Vil from "101 Dalmatians," is using poor Missy to gouge more money from her ex.

But the power of their love is strong, and in time, the Newton kids find themselves taking care of four puppies and trying to hide the fact from their folks.

Writer Len Blum and director Rod Daniel keep their young audience in mind at all times. The situations are never too complicated for kids to understand. The action is never too rough, the humor never too coarse. The pace is brisk with one slow stretch toward the middle. But that didn't bother the kids in a recent preview audience.

They were attentive throughout, and all but the youngest seemed to have a terrific time at the movies.

\ Beethoven's 2nd: *** for kids (** for adults)

A Universal release playing at the Valley View Mall 6 and Salem Valley 8. 86 min. Rated PG for a little canine bathroom humor and mild violence.

by CNB