If you are a dog lover, you probably watch most of the dog movies that you come across. The 1990s were a period when there were a lot of good dog movies coming to the screen. Seven of the dog movies of the 90s are worth watching again and again.
Balto
Balto is an animated film that is based on the true story of the dog teams that delivered the lifesaving vaccine that was needed to stem the diphtheria outbreak occurring in Nome, Alaska in 1925. Balto is a wolf-dog that has to come to the rescue when the average sled dog just won’t do.
101 Dalmatians
This movie is a live-action version of the classic animated film. The dogs in the movie are very cute, but they don’t turn out to be the best part of the film. Glenn Close turns in a great performance as Cruella de Vil.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
This film is a remake of a film from the 1960s. In this version, the animals talk. A golden retriever, a cat and a large bulldog must find their way back to their family. Voice work is provided by Sally Field, Michael J. Fox and Don Ameche.
Air Bud
This is the movie that started the “Air Bud” franchise of films. This is the best of the lot. This film stars the original dog who gained fame before the film for being able to shoot baskets. It is a story about a boy and a dog who need each other, and they become more than they were through their new relationship.
Beethoven
This is another movie that has spawned a number of sequels. Beethoven is the story of a massive St. Bernard that causes mayhem in the life of the family he comes to live with. Charles Grodin puts in a humorous performance as the father of the family, and Dean Jones plays an evil veterinarian out to get Beethoven.
Lassie
There have been many movies and television programs starring Lassie, but this movie from the 1990s is a little bit different. In this film, Lassie helps a troubled boy cope with the death of his mother, and Lassie help the boy’s family keep the family farm when sinister neighbors try to pry it away.
Shiloh
Shiloh is the story of an abused beagle that comes into the life of a boy named Marty. Shiloh’s owner wants the dog back, and the movie deals with how Marty and Shiloh can find the way back to one another.
These seven movies are sure to please children and adults. They are well worth viewing on family movie night.
Logan Sekulow is a renowned producer and director.