I am a day late for my weekly movie review, but I actually planned it that way. No really, I did. See, today is National Dog Day! This is one special day to celebrate man’s best friend. Every August 26th, we celebrate all dogs: mixed breed and pure.
In support and celebration of this fabulous day, I wanted to review a few of my favorite pooch-prominent films (dogs in a main or supporting role).
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Marley and Me (2008). – you cannot celebrate National Dog Day without Marley and Me. I love this film because it shows the love hate relationship between a dog and his owner (s). Owen Wilson and Jennifer Anniston are a great team of dog owners. This little rom-com is great for all dog lovers. Tip: When watching, don’t forget the tissues, though.
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Scooby-Doo (2002). – This is a remake of the classic cartoon and it was done so well. The entire cast did an amazing job portraying their cartoon characters. I was a little shocked how well Matthew Lillard was able to make Shaggy come to “real-life”, .Additionally, I am always here for a Freddie Prinze, Jr. + Sarah Michelle Gellar combo film. Since, I Know What You Did Last Summer, I am all about this real-life couples in films. Binge watching? Here is the sequel: Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed (2004).
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Air Bud (1997). – This is a fun movie for the whole family. Air Bud is a stray pup with amazing basketball skills. After meeting a boy and being taken in to him home, the family soon realizes that Air Bud would be a great addition to the school’s basketball team. If you love this movie, don’t worry. There are a few additions to this original that you can find on Netflix and Amazon.
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A Dog’s Purpose (2017). – This is an incredible story about the connection between a dog and his human. Through a series of twists and turns a dog keeps coming back and finding his way back to his owner. It really is an amazing story of the unimaginable but what every dog mom/dad would hope to happen.
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Eight Below (2006). – It has been a minute since I have seen this film, but every timeI watch it, I love it. Eight sled dogs were left in Antarctica when their humans were forces to evacuate for their survival. The dogs work together through the brutal weather. Paul Walker’s character is fighting to get back to the dogs as soon as possible. This is a cute movie for the family. It does get a little heavy at times for littles (and not so little people). You may need a few tissues with this one.
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Lady and the Tramp (1955) or (2019). – I am not biased toward the original or the live action. The live action was incredibly done. The CGI and the visual effect were amazing. This is a classic film about two dog that come together, one literally from the “wrong side of the tracks”. Through a series of heroic actions, these two find love. Fun Fact: When you go to Disney World, visit Tony’s Town Square at Magic Kingdom. The restaurant was inspired by this classic film.
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Bolt (2008). – This is a cute little film about a superhero pup that learns that he is only “super” on TV. He was born and lived on a film set and was always under the impression that he was a real superhero. Through his journey, he realizes that he can be a hero without being a “super”. This is great for younger kids if you are looking for something for all ages.
There are so many others out there, these are just a few of my (and my family’s) favorites.
Happy (dog) Cuddles!
Elizabeth