Snoopy, Come Home

“You've got a used dog, Charlie Brown.” This bombshell delivered to Charlie Brown explains why Snoopy has left home after receiving a mysterious letter from a girl in a hospital. Her name is Lila and (spoiler alert) she is Snoopy's original owner. But even prior to the letter, Snoopy is acting discontented and even more independent than usual. He is especially resentful of the pervasive “No Dogs Allowed” signs that he sees everywhere. Accompanied by his faithful bird friend Woodstock, Snoopy embarks on a road trip to be with Lila, leaving Charlie and the gang disconsolate. But the pair are waylaid by an over-eager young girl who wants them for her own. This 1972 follow-up to 1969's A Boy Named Charlie Brown (VL-5/06) is heart-wrenching at times, even beyond the usual verbal abuse and humiliation visited on indefatigable Charlie Brown (it's a good thing he grew up in the era before social media). Directed by Bill Melendez, the film features traditional cell-drawn animation and retains the design of the beloved Peanuts TV specials, and Richard and Robert Sherman—on break from Disney—contribute at least one memorable song, “It Changes.” Scene-stealing supporting character Snoopy makes the most here of his starring role. Recommended. (D. Liebenson)