Written by Elsie El-asmar
What better way a to watch a film then to curl up on the couch with a warm drink and a furry friend.
I’ve done the research and after careful consideration I present to you a list of dog films that will have you laughing, crying and appreciating your dog a whole lot more.
.5 Marly & Me
David Frankel was the director of this American comedy drama, staring Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson as the leads. As far as dramas go, this one was a little boring. Nothing of interest really occurs in the first hour and it does drag on for much longer than need be.
The plot and script were unimaginative, they did however deliver in direction, as you were stilled compelled to finish Marley’s journey. The lead character, Marley (Labrador retriever) is brilliant. As years go by in the film, Marley is the glue that holds the family together; he is there through all the turmoil and joy.
Much like that childhood dog we all had growing up, this struck a cord with me and inevitably I was sobbing by the end of the film.
.4 The Fox and the Hound
The fox and the hound is a Disney classic, filmed in 1981 this animated gem was loosely based on a novel by Daniel P.
This film was an absolute favourite of mine as a child and just quietly, it still makes me happy 20 years on. The Fox and the hound does not get praise for its revolutionary animation, nevertheless the plot is something special that transcends time, it is in fact ageless.
You are introduced to Todd (fox) and Copper (hound) early on, and together you embark on a glorious friendship. The mischievous nature of the fox is showcased beautifully as he constantly finds himself in a pickle, as for the hound well he has his nose to the ground for most of the film.
If you can get past the musical numbers (I completely forgot about this component to the film) you are sure to fall in love with these characters and at times even have a tear in your eyes.
.3 Red Dog
This Australian comedy drama was released in 2011, directed by Kriv Nelson. The film was based on ‘red dog’ a true story by Loouis de Bernieres. Red Dogwas nominated for numerous awards, taking home seven of the nine it stood to win.
Set in Western Australia against the harsh climate, this is the tale of a dog that unites the community of Dampier. It is said that Red dog does not have a master, he is a wanderer, forever travelling the dirt roads of the outback, until John Grant appears, a yanki who defends red dogs honor in what is a unusual scenario, I wont say anymore on this iscene for the sake of giving anything away.
The locals narrate the film through a series of short stories. They tell these stories to a new comer Thomas, as Red dog Is on his last leg and all are saying their last goodbyes. The broad country accents and comradery in the film make for some great comic relief. Red dogs arch nemesis Red cat is fantastically thought out and had me in giggles throughout the entirety of the film. Red dog is definitely a film for the whole family.
.2 Bingo
so this ones a little unconventional, but given it was my number one most watched film as a child, it makes the cut. A circus runaway finds solace in a young boy named Chucky.
Chucky is forced to hide Bingo for fear of his parents finding out he is harbouring a filthy dog. Bingo is no ordinary dog, he saves lives on the regular, goes to penitentiary and even holds a nine to five job as a dish washer… okay so its fantastical, even so, Bingo will still melt your heart.
This film showcases a unbreakable bond between pooch and child, the obstacles they face together and the lengths they will go to protect one another are unfathomable. A must see for those that love a cheesy 90’s film.
.1 All dogs go to heaven
This Unique animated feature takes number one spot. Produced in1989 this Disney classic is set in the heart of New Orleans.
Along the bayou you are introduced to the gang, a selection of outrageous characters (parodies of prohibition gangstas) that; drink, smoke, gamble and cheat.
It’s safe to say they do not make children’s films like this anymore. Charlie, voiced by Burt Reynolds, is the hero of the film. After an unfortunate series of events, he winds up in heaven, and is given a second chance to set things right back on earth.
The use of colour is mesmerising and brings back a nostalgia that we commonly share when re-watching these animated classics. Some might say that this film is not appropriate for little ones, I however disagree, the unique story line presents a great deal of forethought, you see the characters grow and transform against the unforgiving realities of WWII.
