Review of Where the Red Fern Grows (1974) by Thomas P — 11 Oct 2013

A childhood fav of mine that still holds up as a great, warmly presented, backwoods kids adventure movie.

After seeing this once in the theatre back in the 70s, I went home, wrote down the title, and hid it under my bedside lamp bc I didnt want to ever forget it.

It struck a deep cord in that young impressionable boy.

I. Absolutely. Love. This. Movie.

Then and now..

Heartfelt, earnest, and a Perfect family movie about the struggles and triumphs of being a poor kid out in the country who saves up to buy twin dogs to raise, train and take out hunting.

Sad, sad ending tho - for those taking young children, I think its about as intense as Bambi.

Its not about the non-budget, the lack of big names, or the simple story.

It is about a kids adventure with some admirable characters and poignant moments that will draw you in.

I have not seen any remake.

My boyhood admiration still holds values I saw in this movie:

Watching the boy save up and buy a pet; seeing him set a huge goal and do his best to accomplish it;.

Observing a functional family be kind and supportive despite their tough financial times; and enjoying the glory of competing (and winning) thru playing by the rules.

Highest marks on this one..