Based on Sir Percy Fitzpatrick's book Jock of the Bushveld, this 1992 family film spins a captivating story, set in 1886 South Africa, as it follows Percy “Fitz” Fitzpatrick (Sean Gallagher), a city boy who spreads his wings, joining up with transport drivers to experience the freedom and beauty of wilderness life. Along the way, Fitz rescues a puppy runt from being drowned--whom he dubs Jock--and from that day on the duo are inseparable. Panning for gold during the Eastern Transvaal rush garners Fitz a small fortune that he parlays into buying a personal wagon to start up his own transport service. Traveling provides plenty of action for Fitz and Jock, ranging from baboon attacks and fights with poachers, to competition from a new railroad being built…and girls (human and canine!). Making a few friends along the way (including the late Robert Urich as an American prospector who shows Fitz how to hunt and imparts valuable life lessons), Fitz comes out of his rather polished shell and enjoys his rugged new existence--especially with Jock by his side. A solid YA title, this consistently interesting and entertaining family film--presented here in a pristine-looking DVD transfer--is recommended. [Note: also newly available on DVD in Questar's "Family Collection" line are The Red Fury, Seven Little Australians and The Winter Stallion.] (J. Williams)
Jock: A True Tale of Friendship
Questar, 102 min., not rated, DVD: $24.99 Volume 18, Issue 3
Jock: A True Tale of Friendship
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