The Call of the Wild-Movie Review

The Call of the Wild (2020) Movie Review

Based on the book by Jack London, The Call of the Wild is the story of a dog going from a domestic, spoiled life in the city, through an adventure in the Alaskan wilderness to find where he truly belongs. This is an adventure film for the whole family, harking back to the old Disney adventure films, like Twenty-Thousand Leagues Under the Sea or Swiss Family Robinson. 

There are several notable actors throughout the film, but the main lead is Harrison Ford, who gives a great performance despite acting alongside a CGI dog. His relationship with the dog, Buck, is touching and heartwarming. They both find where they truly belong in the world, and go in peace. Buck takes an incredible journey from his pampered life in the city, to being an Alaskan sled dog, to helping Harrison Ford's character recover from his loss.

Besides Harrison Ford, there are several notable actors throughout the film. Omar Sy, has the second biggest role, and does a great job playing the leader of the dog sled that delivers the mail. There are other actors that I was surprised to see pop up as well. But the story is always about Buck, and the character growth he has throughout the movie.

While this isn't the best family film, there is a lot to like about this movie, including the importance of having a connection, be it man and dog, man and family, or dog and other animals, we are all searching for our connection to the world. 

That's the true message of the film and there were a few teary eyed moments throughout. Having not read the book, I cannot speak to how true it stays to the source material. It may not be a Christmas film, but if you need a family movie to pop on during the winter months, give this one a shot.