Down and Derby – a family comedy about a Pinewood Derby, has been released on DVD.

Find out if this wholesome flick is for you and your family in our DVD review.


The Pinewood Derby is a pivotal event in a young boy’s life. Unfortunately it can also become an even bigger event in the life of a father. Down and Derby provides a comedic look at at the age-old question of “whose car is it anyway?” Competitiveness spawns a mild insanity among the fathers of a quiet cul de sac, and makes for a pretty funny movie.

Down and Derby isn’t an outwardly LDS movie, though it’s subject matter is very LDS and the cast, crew and and even music includes LDS artists. The show also features a decent cast of actors, including Pat Morita (better known as Mr. Miyagi from the Karate Kid) and Greg Germann from “Ally McBeal”.

The characters are fun. In the plot, the fathers steadily lose grip on reality. Their descent into madness is pretty entertaining – made more so by the quirks they each have. As the neighborhood dads rally their forces to beat childhood rival Ace Montana. In the end, the loose ends are all tied up in a warm-fuzzy ending that is a tab cheesy.

The film has broad family appeal. Older kids will learn about good sportsmanship and fairness. They’ll also learn that healthy competition can get out of control. It may help them spot and treat early warning signs of Pinewood Derby overzealousness.

Down and Derby is a light-hearted family comedy. Its not to be taken seriously, but is a wholesome watch appropriate for all ages.

Down and Derby is available January 24th on DVD, and can be preordered here and here