Group 1 - Cineverse and Air Bud Entertainment announced the return of the Air Bud franchise with a new film titled "Air Bud Returns," set to release in Summer 2026 [1][6] - A nationwide talent search is being launched to find a new golden retriever to star in the film, inviting dog owners to submit their purebred golden retrievers [3][4] - The film will feature a storyline about a 12-year-old boy named Jacob who, after moving to his father's childhood home, discovers an original VHS of the Air Bud movie and forms a bond with a neglected golden retriever named Buddy [5] Group 2 - Cineverse is expanding its portfolio with upcoming releases, including "Air Bud Returns," which will be its first kids and family theatrical release [6] - Air Bud Entertainment has a long history of creating family films, with "Air Bud Returns" marking the 50th movie produced by founder Robert Vince [9] - The collaboration between Cineverse and Air Bud Entertainment aims to blend positive messages and unique storytelling, continuing the legacy of the beloved franchise [9]