A more modern adaptation of the classic novel, Where the Red Fern Grows is an archetypal ‘boy and his dog’ story. Except that Bobby Coleman (Joseph Ashton) has two dogs: The finest redtick coon hounds in all of the Ozarks. The story begins with the rambunctious and hard-working 10-year-old working side jobs to earn enough money to buy two redtick pups. When his grandfather (Dabney Coleman) learns of this, he keeps it a secret from the rest of the family and helps Bobby put in his order.
Some weeks later, Bobby makes the trek upriver to Tahlequah to retrieve his puppies at the train station, leaving his mother (Renee Faia) and father (Dave Matthews) at home worried sick without a word. They accept the return of their son and the surprises in his sack in stride, taking the dogs Old Dan and Little Ann into the family. Bobby makes quick work of training the hounds to be the best raccoon ‘treers’ in the county if not the state. Several dramatic turns in the story follow and are better seen than described.
Most Americans are familiar with the novel if not this 2003 or the 1974 film adaptation. This version stands out for its excellent cinematography and finely polished editing. Some of these shots look like they belong in an adaptation of Arthurian legend with all the white mist and green foliage. While relying on narration at times to speed the pace, this movie does an excellent job of showing and not telling.
There are some strong Christian overtones, though I wouldn’t describe this as a Christian film since the few religious discussions are relevant to portraying the time period and a child learning about death. It’s a dog lover’s delight (until the end, that is) with excellent footage of many hounds at work and play. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing family drama to add to your public library collection, Where the Red Fern Grows is highly recommended.
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