There are a few scenes in Lassie, the newest reincarnation of the classic tale about a boy and his collie, that are guaranteed to make even the coldest human being weep. One of such scenes involves a young boy telling his best friend (man’s best friend, that is) that she is a bad dog and that he doesn’t love her anymore after being forced to sell her. It is a cruel scene to witness but it also goes to show just how powerful motion pictures can be. Even though it takes place early on in the movie, it is impossible to remain unaffected by it nonetheless.
Lassie, which is an import from Ireland, is a tremendous update of the original versions of the story. While it is a fantastic feature film, it is not ideal family flick. The movie is never boring but it does slow down in parts to help advance the humans’ yarns. These segments combined with the emotionally charging scenes make Lassie inappropriate for younger moviegoers.
That brings me to my next point – this Lassie is more about the people that the loyal pup meets than the dog herself. The movie utilizes the basic storyline of The Fugitive television series in which, while on the run, the absconder influences everyone on his or her path. Lassie has the power to bring soul mates together, give a little girl the confidence to go on and help an unfortunate man survive a tragic event. The thought of Lassie enriching people’s lives is inspirational and gives meaning to the theory of “everything happens for a reason.”
However, people expecting a movie about a dog might be surprised with what they find in Lassie. This should not deter folks from seeing the wonderful flick, though. Lassie is a very special movie worthy of the beloved title in every way. It may not be the best movie to bring young children to, but it certainly is one that you should bring yourself to. Older children, teenagers, adults and the young at heart will cherish every moment of this must-see Fall flick.
Lassie takes place in Yorkshire during the first World War and focuses on a lower-middle class family. Joe, played in very heartwarming fashion by Jonathan Mason, is greeted by his loveable canine Lassie each day after school. When Joe’s father, Sam, played by John Lynch, is laid off from work, the family must sell Lassie to the wealthy Duke, played by Peter O’Toole. The Duke’s abusive dog-handler is unable to keep Lassie from running back to Joe.
Joe’s mother, Sarah, played by Samantha Morton, does not appreciate all of the problems her son’s bond with Lassie is causing. The Duke takes Lassie on a trip to
Lassie, which screened at the Tribeca Film Festival last Spring, is a spectacular feature film. It will definitely emotionally affect you. Lassie is worthy of your smiles, tears and laughs. It may be a bit too upsetting for kids, but it is the touching movie that you’ve waited all year for. It may even make you look at your own best friend in a new way.
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