We’ve had movies on the mind at DogWatch headquarters ever since the Oscars were given out last month in Los Angeles. In addition to catching up on last year’s award winners, the DogWatch Hidden Fences team have been coming up with our list of favorites. Sticking with what we know best, Dog Tails presents the results of our survey of the best dog movies. These 11 films cover a wide range, but all feature unforgettable dogs who have touched our hearts and tickled our funny bones.
The Classics
Lassie Come Home (1943) [G]
Film’s most famous dog made her movie debut in this MGM classic. This version, based on the 1940 novel, takes place in Depression-era rural England. Having fallen on hard times, the Carraclough family is forced to sell their beloved rough collie to a Duke. The family’s young son Joe (Roddy McDowall) is determined to retrieve Lassie, and enlists the help of the Duke’s young niece Priscilla (eleven year-old Elizabeth Taylor). Lassie is played by Pal, the first in a long line of canine actors to portray this loyal family pet. Lassie Come Home is an historic dog film, and one that will still delight the whole family.
101 Dalmatians (1961 and 1996) [G]
Disney has introduced numerous dog characters, but one film stands alone for the sheer number of canine cast members. This film also features the unforgettable villain Cruella De Vil, who wants to steal the titular pups to make a fur coat. Viewers can choose between the 1961 animated classic, or the 1996 live-action version, featuring Glenn Close as De Vil. Either way, you’re bound to enjoy watching these famous spotted dogs outsmart the devilish fashionista and steal your heart in the process.
Old Yeller (1957) [G]
Based on the 1956 book by Fred Gipson, this movie is a classic tear-jerker centering on a boy and his beloved Labrador retriever/mastiff mix. Parents will remember this movie from their childhood, and children seeing it for the first time will never forget it.
Retro Favorites
Benji (1974) [G]
Perhaps the only dog who could give Lassie a run for her money as cinema’s most famous dog, Benji the mix breed first appeared in this 1974 film. Like Old Yeller, the story takes place in Texas. Benji, a stray that everyone in town knows and loves, uses his cheerful spirit and resourcefulness to help rescue two children in danger. What’s not to love?
The Adventures of Milo & Otis (1989) [G]
We feel that cats deserve some recognition, too, so we’ve included this Japanese film about two best friends, a orange tabby and a pug. Dubbed into English by the actor Dudley Moore, this movie captures the bond between these two mischievous animals, whose adventures include floating down river in a box, fighting off bears and setting down to build their own families. Both cat and dog lovers won’t be able to resist this lovable duo.
Far From Home: The Adventures of Yellow Dog (1995) [PG]
Set in picturesque, coastal British Columbia, Far From Home is truly a memorable “adventure.” 16 year-old Angus (Jesse Bradford) is separated from his father while sailing, and is left floating in a lifeboat with his golden Lab named Yellow. Angus and Yellow then begin the long trek home through treacherous terrain. This exciting film is rated PG, so it may be a little too suspenseful for the youngest members of the family.
New Classics
My Dog Skip (2000) [PG]
My Dog Skip is another film based on a book, this one written by Willie Morris. Set in the 1940s, the film stars Frankie Muniz as Willie, a timid 9 year-old who is bullied at school. Willie comes out of his shell when his family adopts a Jack Russell terrier named Skip. The talented cast also includes Diane Lane and Kevin Bacon as Willie’s parents, and Luke Wilson as the friendly next-door neighbor.
Eight Below (2006) [PG]
Disney goes to the dogs again, this time tackling the world of Antarctic sled dogs. Paul Walker stars as Jerry Shephard, a guide who is ordered by his scientist boss (Bruce Greenwood) to venture out with his sled dogs to find a rare meteorite. Facing dangerous weather conditions, Jerry is forced to leave his dogs to save his life. After returning to base, he is determined to rescue his beloved working dogs. This film, based on an amazing true story, is an inspiring tale of survival and strength.
Up (2009) [G]
This recent Pixar hit is not a “dog movie” per se, but it does feature one of the most memorable on-screen dogs of the past decade. At the beginning of their South American journey, septuagenarian Carl and his young stowaway Russell run into Dug, a dog with a very special collar. For all of you who are dying to know what your dog would say if he could speak, Dug (see image at right) offers a hilarious example. Say it with me now: “Squirrel!”
Movies for the Grown-Ups
Best in Show (2000) [PG-13]
This hilarious “mockumentary” takes on the world of dog shows, and the dog-crazy owners who make up this unique subculture. Director Christopher Guest recruits his regular players, including Glee star Jane Lynch, and gives them free reign to improvise. The result is one of the most entertaining films of the past decade, and a must-see for Guest fans and dog lovers everywhere. (Parents: the film does feature some adult language and themes, so it may not be appropriate for children under 13.) Not only will it make you laugh, it will make you feel better about your own obsessive dog-related habits!
Check out the trailer for this film here:
Through a Dog’s Eyes (2010) [Not Rated]
This moving and informative documentary aired on PBS last year, and it is not to be missed. The film chronicles the training and home life of service dogs. In the words of the filmmakers, “these hopeful stories provide unique insights into the ways canine assistants improve people’s lives.” You can watch the film for free on PBS.org, and also learn more about the dogs and the trainers.
Did your favorite dog movie make the list? Share your opinions here, and on our Facebook page.
Image Credits: MoviePoster DB (Lassie), Sony Pictures (Milo & Otis), Pixar (Up)
