March 8, 2024
PAWscar Worthy Films: 7 Of The Greatest Movies Featuring Dogs Ever Made
The 96th Annual Academy Awards take place this Sunday, and with so many fantastic films up for awards, we’re excited to see who the big winners are. Another longtime staple of Hollywood tradition is dogs!
Here are seven of the greatest movies featuring dogs ever made and how you can watch them at home with your four-legged family member.
Isle Of Dogs (2018) [PG-13]
Wes Anderson’s second animated feature film follows the story of a young boy named Atari. When all the dogs in Japan are exiled to an island for fear they may be spreading a dangerous “canine flu”, Atari loses his dog Spots. He adventures to the island in search of his pup and ends up meeting a fascinating cast of canine companions voiced by Hollywood heavyweights like Bryan Cranston, Tilda Swinton, and Edward Norton. Stunning visuals and incredible story design make this film worth more than one watch.
Now streaming on Disney+
The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019) [PG]
Break out the tissues for this one! Simon Curtis’ 2019 effort based on the book of the same name is a heartwarming story of Enzo the Golden Retriever. Enzo is a guiding light for his owner Denny, a race car driver who navigates many challenging life events during Enzo’s life. Enzo serves as an integral source of inspiration and emotional support for Denny and helps him through his hardships. The cast features Milo Ventimiglia, Amanda Seyfried, and Kevin Costner as the voice of Enzo.
Available on Disney+
Togo (2019) [PG]
This film follows the brave adventures of Togo the sled dog and his musher, Leonhard Seppala, portrayed by Willem Dafoe. Togo and Leonhard’s sled team traversed the first leg of the now famous 1925 serum run to Nome, before passing the baton to the more well-known team featuring the lead sled dog Balto. The film follows the development of Togo and Seppala’s unique relationship, the adventure of the serum run, and the events that followed. When the film begins Seppala is dismissive of undersized Togo. However, throughout the story, Togo time and time again wins over his owner by displaying immense courage and heart.
Now streaming on Disney+
Marley & Me (2008) [PG]
This new family classic, based on the 2005 book of the same name, written by Josh Grogan, stars Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston as John and Jenny Grogan, two Michigan writers transplanted in South Florida. The film follows their journey through marriage, career development, and becoming parents. Of course, right by their side throughout this journey is Marley, a yellow lab with a big personality. Marley is initially a handful for the struggling couple but eventually develops into an integral part of the family, teaching his owners life lessons and how to appreciate every moment.
Available for rent on Amazon Prime Video
Homeward Bound (1993) [G]
This classic family film is a remake of 1963’s The Incredible Journey. Michael J. Fox, Sally Field, and Don Ameche, star as the voice of Chance the dog, Sassy the cat, and Shadow the dog. The three pets get lost during a family move and must lean on each other to survive in the unforgiving wilderness. They face obstacles like brown bears, mountain ranges, porcupines, and mountain lions, on their journey spanning hundreds of miles. Guided by love for their family, the three pets set aside their differences and work together to make it home to their owners.
Now streaming on Disney+
My Dog Skip (2000) [PG]
Based on the book by Willie Morris, this film is the story of a young Willie and his dog Skip, a Jack Russell Terrier. Skip comes to Willie’s family when his previous owner, their neighbor, is drafted to fight in World War II. Skip and Willie become fast friends and experience the joys and pains of growing up. Starring Frankie Muniz, Kevin Bacon, and Diane Lane, this film is a heartwarming tale that’s fun for the entire family!
Available for rent on Amazon Prime Video
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 former 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. Not only will it make you laugh, it will make you feel better about your own obsessive dog-related habits!
Available for rent on Amazon Prime Video