Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero

Just in time for the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day in 1918, comes this unusual story—animated, but based on fact—about a canine hero serving in the trenches of World War I. Stubby, a mascot for the 102nd Infantry Regiment, was shipped off to the 26th Division to fight the Germans in France, helping to save lives, warn of incoming mustard gas, and much else for 18 months. Both a charming and gripping movie for families (though not suitable for very young kids, given the various wartime horrors depicted), Sgt. Stubby is all heart and a reminder that many dogs need to feel like they matter in their given circumstances. The vocal cast includes Helena Bonham Carter as the story’s narrator, and Gérard Depardieu as a French soldier with large appetites and much experience on the battlefield. The animation is realistic and younger viewers who don’t know much about the "War to End All Wars" will learn a lot here about what soldiers had to endure. Recommended. (T. Keogh)