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- By Srishti Pandey
- Wed, 20 Dec 2023 06:42 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In the vast landscape of cinema, stories featuring dogs as central characters have consistently tugged at our heartstrings, revealing the profound bond that exists between humans and their loyal canine companions. From classic tales set against historical backdrops to modern comedies and tearjerkers, these movies beautifully portray the unique connection that defines the relationship between humans and their four-legged friends.
Let's delve into a curated collection of films that not only showcase the loyalty of man's best friend but also evoke a range of emotions, leaving audiences with a deep appreciation for the unconditional love that dogs bring into our lives.
1. Old Yeller (1957):
A classic coming-of-age tale set in the 1860s Texas frontier, ‘Old Yeller’ narrates the story of a boy and his loyal dog, Old Yeller. This poignant film explores the challenges of frontier life and underscores the profound bond between humans and their faithful canine companions.
Where To Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
2. Turner & Hooch (1989):
In this buddy cop comedy, Tom Hanks stars as a detective who inherits a slobbering mastiff named Hooch. The film not only provides a comedic touch but also highlights how the presence of a dog can soften even the most uptight personalities.
Where To Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
3. Beethoven (1992):
‘Beethoven’ is a family comedy that follows the chaotic yet heartwarming journey of a St. Bernard puppy adopted by the Newton family. Through the clumsiness of Beethoven, the film showcases the challenges and joys that come with welcoming a furry friend into the household.
Where To Watch: Rent on Prime Video
4. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993):
An adventure film featuring three pets – Shadow, Chance, and Sassy – ‘Homeward Bound’ tells the tale of their perilous journey to reunite with their owners. The film captures the resilience of these animals and the deep emotional connection that exists between pets and their families.
Where To Watch: Rent on Prime Video
5. Marley & Me (2008):
Based on John Grogan's memoir, ‘Marley & Me’ is a drama-comedy chronicling the life of a journalist and his family who adopt a mischievous Labrador retriever named Marley. The film explores the transformative power of a dog's presence in people’s lives, showcasing the laughter and tears that accompany the journey of pet ownership.
Where To Watch: Prime Video
6. Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009):
This tearjerker is based on the true story of a Japanese Akita dog named Hachiko, who waits for his master at a train station every day, even after his master's death. ‘Hachi: A Dog's Tale’ is a poignant exploration of loyalty, love, and the enduring impact of our four-legged friends. This is one of those movies that can 100 per cent make even the rock-hard people cry.
Where To Watch: Prime Video
7. The Artist (2011):
A silent film that won five Oscars, ‘The Artist’ is set in 1920s Hollywood and follows the rise and fall of a silent movie star. The film also highlights the star's relationship with his loyal Jack Russell terrier named Uggie, who won the Palm Dog Award at the Cannes Film Festival.
Where To Watch: YouTube
8. A Dog's Purpose (2017):
A fantasy-comedy based on W. Bruce Cameron's novel, ‘A Dog's Purpose’ explores the meaning of life through the eyes of a dog reincarnated into different breeds and owners. The film, despite its mixed critical reception, captures the emotional journey of a dog's existence.
Where To Watch: Sony LIV
9. Megan Leavey (2017):
A biographical drama based on the true story of a US Marine corporal and her military working dog, Rex. ‘Megan Leavey’ portrays the strong bond formed between the duo during their service in Iraq.
Where To Watch: Prime Video
10. Dog (2022):
In this comedy co-directed by and starring Channing Tatum, a US Army ranger travels with a Belgian Malinois named Lulu, a military dog whose handler was his best friend. ‘Dog’ explores the dynamics of friendship and loyalty in the context of military service.
Where To Watch: Prime Video
11. Togo (2019):
A historical adventure film based on the true story of a sledgedog named Togo, who led a team of dogs to deliver a life-saving serum to Nome, Alaska, during a diphtheria outbreak in 1925. The film stars Willem Dafoe as Togo's owner and trainer, Leonhard Seppala, and has a 95 per cent critic score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Where To Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
12. 777 Charlie (2022):
A Kannada-language adventure drama film about a man named Dharma and his bond with a Labrador dog named Charlie. The film explores how Charlie changes Dharma's perspective on life and has received acclaim for its emotional depth and storytelling.
Where To Watch: Prime Video (Currently unavailable)
As we immerse ourselves in these cinematic journeys, we are reminded of the extraordinary bond that exists between humans and dogs. These films, spanning different genres and eras, share heartwarming stories that celebrate the unique and irreplaceable connection between man and his beloved canine companions. So, grab a box of tissues and embark on a cinematic adventure that will leave you laughing, crying, and ultimately appreciating the profound impact these furry friends have on our lives.
