Shiloh 2

Released in 1997, Shiloh, based on Phyllis Reynolds Naylor's Newbery Award-winning book, was a breed apart. This welcome sequel, based on Naylor's book, Shiloh Season, is, like the original, refreshingly low-key, its lessons about "right and wrong, good and bad" conveyed and reinforced in a straightforward manner. Less a repeat of the boy-and-his-dog story, Shiloh 2 is concerned with the redemption of Judd (Scott Wilson reprising his role), a hard-drinking and ornery cuss who wants Shiloh, the hunting dog he abused, back. Zachary Browne co-stars as Marty Preston, the boy who rescued Shiloh and can't understand why Judd won't live up to their original bargain. Despite Judd's threats and menacing behavior (such as nearly running Marty down with his truck), Marty believes that Judd can change. Michael Moriarty, adopting a Forrest Gump-like drawl, returns as Marty's father, who stands up for his family and encourages Marty's efforts to reach out in friendship to Judd. More jaded young viewers may not sit still for the prosaic pace. But Marty is an excellent role model. Recommended. (K. Lee Benson)[DVD Review—Sept. 5, 2006—Warner, 96 min., PG, $12.98—Making its first appearance on DVD, 1999's Shiloh 2: Shiloh Season sports a nice transfer and Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound. DVD extras include interviews with the cast, filmmakers, and author Phyllis Reynolds Naylor (16 min.), and trailers. Bottom line: a small but solid extras package for fine family film.]