Movies

I first saw "Benji" when I was eight years old; during its original release, and after nearly 25 years it is still one of the finest, independently-produced family films ever made. Told entirely from the eyes of a dog, it mixes humor, suspense, and heart-tugging emotion. The dog, Benji, is still one of the finest animal actors ever to appear on screen. He conveys emotion, like no other animal on film ever had before, or has since. Although this is mainly a film for families to enjoy, it would surprise me if any adult couldn't be moved by its sentiment.

Those eyes, that face! Benji does seem almost human in his first motion picture. This film isn't in the same league as National Velvet or Lassie Come Home but it is a refreshing warm-hearted little movie that's filled with several funny and moving moments. What's best is that you can watch it with your kids without being bored or having to monitor every scene. The lovable star of this movie has a face that could melt a heart of stone. That helps to compensate for the somewhat predictable plot.

I'm not about to write a bad review of a film that started a small franchise for producer Joe Camp. What kind of grinch could you be not to like this adorable dog and the two kids, Cynthia Smith and Allen Fiuzat, who want to adopt tis ragamffin dog who comes around every morning looking for sscraps?The kids and maid Patricia Garrett want to adopt him, but father Doctor Peter Breck is concerned about bringing in strays and what they might carry.Benji's no Rin Tin Tin, but he's smart and resourceful as a wuartet of kidnappers find out.Benji even got an Oscar nomintion for best song for Benji's Theme.Benji marked he farewell performances of both Edgar Buchanan and Frances Bavier. The film spawned a bunch of successors.You ave to be a grinch not to like this movie.