Good family movie...includes domestic violence--though not graphically--against people and animals, which make it a cut above some animal comedies. I guess sometimes the animals ARE smarter than we humans..we are just too proud to admit it. But, this is a worthwhile watch...you will "boo" the villains( some of whom, ironically, morph into heroes before the end), root for the good guys...and it fairly well works itself out in the end. A lot of human actors prefer not to work with animal actors because animals steal the scenes. But this is a dog--or several dogs--having their day, and it is a bit of a romp, joyously as well as tragically. Mostly for kids, but worthwhile watching.
18 Reviews
Suitable for children (and makes you want to adopt a dog!)
VanAren7320 August 2004
We just returned from seeing this film, which opened today in our city. While it's by no means "great art" -- the plot and dialog are pretty basic -- the children around us were all laughing at the appropriate places and seemed involved in the story. When your movie-going experience is punctuated by people around you laughing or going "Awwww..." at the appropriate places, you have to assume they're enjoying themselves.
In an era when so much of what we see in films is created by computer, it was interesting to see the statement in the credits that there was NO computer-generated or animatronic stuff in this film and that all of the actions done by the animals were in reality done by the animals. I also think it's neat that the dogs in the film were actually adopted from animal shelters in different cities and were trained to be in this movie.
The film's humor is directed at younger children, especially the scenes involving the slapstick dog catchers, which older viewers might find a bit overdone. There are also some heavier aspects to the plot, but the children around us didn't seem to react to those so my assumption is that those parts just didn't resonate with the kids and that they were more involved with the cute dogs and what was happening with them.
I thought that the young man who played the lead character(or perhaps I should say, the lead HUMAN character!) did an especially nice job. Nick Whitaker's portrayal of Colby was one of the better acting roles of the film.
Bottom line: It's mainly a kids' movie, and it's a clean kids' movie (no off-color language or foul jokes). If it gets a bit sentimental at times, it makes up for it by showing just how expressive dogs can be, even without the power of speech. Oh -- and if you go, be sure to stay for the credits, which include scenes of the filming.
In an era when so much of what we see in films is created by computer, it was interesting to see the statement in the credits that there was NO computer-generated or animatronic stuff in this film and that all of the actions done by the animals were in reality done by the animals. I also think it's neat that the dogs in the film were actually adopted from animal shelters in different cities and were trained to be in this movie.
The film's humor is directed at younger children, especially the scenes involving the slapstick dog catchers, which older viewers might find a bit overdone. There are also some heavier aspects to the plot, but the children around us didn't seem to react to those so my assumption is that those parts just didn't resonate with the kids and that they were more involved with the cute dogs and what was happening with them.
I thought that the young man who played the lead character(or perhaps I should say, the lead HUMAN character!) did an especially nice job. Nick Whitaker's portrayal of Colby was one of the better acting roles of the film.
Bottom line: It's mainly a kids' movie, and it's a clean kids' movie (no off-color language or foul jokes). If it gets a bit sentimental at times, it makes up for it by showing just how expressive dogs can be, even without the power of speech. Oh -- and if you go, be sure to stay for the credits, which include scenes of the filming.
Pretty good shaggy dog story. Woof! But is it small-child friendly?
estherwalker-3471010 January 2023
Warning: Spoilers
If you liked previous films in the Benji dog series, you may like this one too, but not necessarily. Since there has been only one previous review during the last 12 years, and that was last year, I assume that this film is pretty much off the radar of films to see. It grossed only a few million $s upon it's initial release: much less than the first 2 Benji films, produced about 30 years before. But, since it came as part of a 4 pack of Benji films, I decided to see and review it.
There are actually two rather similar-looking free-ranging dogs in this story for most of the film, thus similar to "Benji". One is nameless until the finale, when it is chosen to be Benji for an upcoming film. The smaller of the two is named Shaggy, by Mr. Finch: a lonely senior citizen, who tries to lure it into staying as a pet, by leaving bowls of food and water on the front porch. Both dogs were found in separate animal shelters and trained to be actors.
The plot centers around a substandard breeding operation, and especially one dog and its mother, which the owner considers his most valuable breeder. But, it's in very poor physical condition because of substandard care, and overbreeding, as detailed by the vet, near film's end.
The few reviews thus far are mostly split between those who love the film, and those who hate it, one declaring it the worse film they have ever seen! One said their young child was either bored or terrified by most scenes. This is similar to negative reviews of the previous "For the Love of Benji". In both these films, unlike the initial "Benji", Benji was in trouble for most of the film. Also, "Benji" included 2 sub-teen kids who were important characters, not present in the subsequent 2 films. As an adult, I felt "Benji" was too bland for me, except for the kidnapping section. I found these 2 more recent films more interesting. But, perhaps many young kids don't want to see Benji usually in trouble? Perhaps the ideal viewer for these 2 films is someone like me: an older teen or adult who likes some dogs(hopefully including Benji), but who has minimal contact with real dogs. Elderly lonely Mr. Finch in the film, is a good example of such a person. Hence, perhaps these 2 films were marketed to the wrong people: families with small children and a friendly, lovable, dog.
The primary source of the periodic comical relief is the 2 clown-like dimwit Animal Control field operators, who keep trying to capture one dog or the other, sometimes engaging in slapstick humor. However, eventually, when the 2 dogs lead them to where Daisy is laying, very sick, they immediately take her to the vet. In addition, one of them has quite a good singing voice, singing the old standard "It had to be You" during the ending credits.
Almost forgot to mention Merlin: the talkative cockatoo, as providing a bit of humor now and again.
I can recommend purchasing the 4-film Benji DVD packet: not expensive, if you think you may be one of the ideal viewers.
There are actually two rather similar-looking free-ranging dogs in this story for most of the film, thus similar to "Benji". One is nameless until the finale, when it is chosen to be Benji for an upcoming film. The smaller of the two is named Shaggy, by Mr. Finch: a lonely senior citizen, who tries to lure it into staying as a pet, by leaving bowls of food and water on the front porch. Both dogs were found in separate animal shelters and trained to be actors.
The plot centers around a substandard breeding operation, and especially one dog and its mother, which the owner considers his most valuable breeder. But, it's in very poor physical condition because of substandard care, and overbreeding, as detailed by the vet, near film's end.
The few reviews thus far are mostly split between those who love the film, and those who hate it, one declaring it the worse film they have ever seen! One said their young child was either bored or terrified by most scenes. This is similar to negative reviews of the previous "For the Love of Benji". In both these films, unlike the initial "Benji", Benji was in trouble for most of the film. Also, "Benji" included 2 sub-teen kids who were important characters, not present in the subsequent 2 films. As an adult, I felt "Benji" was too bland for me, except for the kidnapping section. I found these 2 more recent films more interesting. But, perhaps many young kids don't want to see Benji usually in trouble? Perhaps the ideal viewer for these 2 films is someone like me: an older teen or adult who likes some dogs(hopefully including Benji), but who has minimal contact with real dogs. Elderly lonely Mr. Finch in the film, is a good example of such a person. Hence, perhaps these 2 films were marketed to the wrong people: families with small children and a friendly, lovable, dog.
The primary source of the periodic comical relief is the 2 clown-like dimwit Animal Control field operators, who keep trying to capture one dog or the other, sometimes engaging in slapstick humor. However, eventually, when the 2 dogs lead them to where Daisy is laying, very sick, they immediately take her to the vet. In addition, one of them has quite a good singing voice, singing the old standard "It had to be You" during the ending credits.
Almost forgot to mention Merlin: the talkative cockatoo, as providing a bit of humor now and again.
I can recommend purchasing the 4-film Benji DVD packet: not expensive, if you think you may be one of the ideal viewers.
Back to the Days of Disney
PenNhnd3 September 2004
I took my granddaughter to see Benji, Off the Leash yesterday and was reminded of the fun movies I used to go see as a child. Disney, Kurt Russell, Fred MacMurray, Dean Jones and Suzanne Pleshette. While Benji gets the credit in the title, the story is really about how our lives are intertwined and the wrongness of hurting others (especially animals) for any reason. My granddaughter and I also discussed how you can't always assume to know a person until you really get to know them. For example the two "bumbling dog catchers" turned out to be the nice guys, showing tremendous love and compassion for "Puppy's" mom.
I had the op to meet Joe Camp and Benji this past summer at CBA. The sweetest dog EVER! I was given a card with her paw print, which I put in a scrapbook for my granddaughter. These are the movies our childhood should be made of...not the basic trash we see everywhere else.
I had the op to meet Joe Camp and Benji this past summer at CBA. The sweetest dog EVER! I was given a card with her paw print, which I put in a scrapbook for my granddaughter. These are the movies our childhood should be made of...not the basic trash we see everywhere else.
Worst Movie Ever
jurreta14 January 2007
My family went to see something that we thought would entertain us. Going to the movies is always fun for us, and I love almost every movie I see. The lights dimmed and everyone fell quiet. As I started to watch, I realized that my family had made a terrible mistake, coming to this movie. The plot lines are confusing and hard to follow, the script was terrible, and the list goes on. Most of my family wanted to leave in the middle of the movie, but we didn't because we thought that my sister was enjoying it. She wasn't. This was honestly the worst 97 minutes of my life and I have had very painful surgery. The 1 I gave this movie is a compliment for this movie. If IMDb would have let me give this movie a 0, I would have. My mom saw in the paper that this movie was given a 3 1/2 out of 5 rating by a reviewer and she remarked that she would have given it 3 1/2 stars less. I would have given it 10 stars less. Don't waste your time with this movie, or you'll regret it.
Poor
tony_carlin24 July 2022
Best Benji movie of all!
doxiedi8 August 2004
I have seen all of the Benji movies, including this latest one at a premier showing prior to release, and loved this one the best. It instills a variety of emotions in the viewer - laughter, sadness, sympathy, and anger - but I promise you that you will walk out of the theater with a big smile on your face and in your heart. Take a tissue with you, but your tears will be happy ones. The movie also sends a strong message about puppy mills and backyard breeders. I am an animal shelter volunteer and know that there are too many people out there who are uneducated about such topics. Thank you Joe Camp for bringing Benji back to us again along with that important message to the public.
the movie is important for all animal & people lovers
Leightonmedia28 August 2004
I felt this was a moving picture and told an important story about how to respect our pets. With comedy from the local dog catchers to poignant observations and action by a young son who loved animals, this story shows why there are too many unwanted animals on the streets. It also shows some of the positive things that can happen to animals if people care.
BENJI offers insights into the human personality, with most of the people in the film caring about the animals. Each character represented a different type of person on the animal respect scale. the young boy was--of course--an idealistic person who really didn't understand ALL the needs animals have (including shots, spay-neuter) but just knew when they were in trouble. The Mother loved animals but was limited in what to do for them because she was frozen by how the father treated her. Then there was a very kind stranger--a man who looked like Santa Claus, who ended up having a spiritual dialog with Lizard, Benji's terrier dog friend. Ultimately Santa adopted Lizard.
And of course there was the evil dog breeder who just didn't care about his dogs (and people are really like that), just wanted to make money off of them, and if one dog did not look like the breed standard, let it die. This man was one of the most evil villains I've ever seen in the movies, as well.
A great actor.
I also thought the heavy set dog catcher, ?Stanley, the man who first started paying attention to what Benji was trying to tell them, was also a superb actor. Both dog catchers worked well together.
Towards the ending of the film, we started to cry. First when Benji communicated with his (her) sick mother and was able to convince the dog catchers to take her to the hospital. The great thing was the doctor at the shelter was interested in finding out what was wrong with the dog and how to fix her. Most shelters would just put down the dog. This one didn't, so I'm grateful that if a dog would be rescued by a shelter, this one would do it. In the future I hope we all become humane enough with animals to rescue and tend to all stray animals.
I was sobbing loudly when the mother and son were in the animal shelter and the mother showed her signs of abuse from the father. From then on in, I might as well have been a river.
BENJI offers insights into the human personality, with most of the people in the film caring about the animals. Each character represented a different type of person on the animal respect scale. the young boy was--of course--an idealistic person who really didn't understand ALL the needs animals have (including shots, spay-neuter) but just knew when they were in trouble. The Mother loved animals but was limited in what to do for them because she was frozen by how the father treated her. Then there was a very kind stranger--a man who looked like Santa Claus, who ended up having a spiritual dialog with Lizard, Benji's terrier dog friend. Ultimately Santa adopted Lizard.
And of course there was the evil dog breeder who just didn't care about his dogs (and people are really like that), just wanted to make money off of them, and if one dog did not look like the breed standard, let it die. This man was one of the most evil villains I've ever seen in the movies, as well.
A great actor.
I also thought the heavy set dog catcher, ?Stanley, the man who first started paying attention to what Benji was trying to tell them, was also a superb actor. Both dog catchers worked well together.
Towards the ending of the film, we started to cry. First when Benji communicated with his (her) sick mother and was able to convince the dog catchers to take her to the hospital. The great thing was the doctor at the shelter was interested in finding out what was wrong with the dog and how to fix her. Most shelters would just put down the dog. This one didn't, so I'm grateful that if a dog would be rescued by a shelter, this one would do it. In the future I hope we all become humane enough with animals to rescue and tend to all stray animals.
I was sobbing loudly when the mother and son were in the animal shelter and the mother showed her signs of abuse from the father. From then on in, I might as well have been a river.
*Beloved Benji... A class act... Then, now and always*
Shilohbloo12 April 2006
Benji & Joe Camp did it again! No one does animal movies like them, and I recommend all of their movies highly all the time. Joe has a way of melting Benji (and now newcomer Shaggy!) straight into our hearts... and makes sure to leave us wiser along the way. If I had any criticism of this movie at all it is that it didn't play in our area when it was out in the movie theaters. It seems that it didn't play in many areas. Therefore, we had to wait for it to come out on DVD. But, thankfully, it did finally come out, and we can now enjoy it along with the other people who were lucky (blessed!!!) enough to see it on the big screen. Thank you Joe and Benji for coming back to us. The world is better for the both of you, and we hope to see more!!!!! Benji... I loved him then... I love him now... I will love him always.
A WONDERFUL story, engaging and enlightening for kids and their grownups!
joeswife_218 August 2004
This movie was a completely refreshing break from the so called family films out there today. We rarely take our pre-teen and teen children to movies these days because not only do the films contain foul content, they lack any story line or message that will some how improve us. This movie had us all in stitches and my 14 year old son was actually surprised that he was emotionally moved by the struggle of Benji and Lizzard Tongue.
The creativity of the twists and turns of the story, as well as the multi-layered plot line leave you talking about the issues raised in the movie for days to come. We were invited to a sneak preview of the movie while in Chicago and were delighted to find out that the movie doesn't use the typical Hollywood tricks to entice kids.
While we've seen Benji movies in the past, this one is like a supercharged Benji. I was afraid that the film maker might have to use voice overs to tell the story, but it was so great to root for Benji and really care about his mission all as told simply through those big beautiful brown eyes. The incredible music didn't hurt either. I hope they put out a sound track!
Bravo to Benji, and my kids have told so many of their friends about the movie that we're getting a group together to have a real neighborhood movie experience on Saturday! Bravo for Benji! Many thumbs of all shapes and sizes way up for this one.
I didn't belong to this service, but when a review came up here which was diametrically opposed to what our wonderful experience was with this film, I just had to try to set the record straight.
The creativity of the twists and turns of the story, as well as the multi-layered plot line leave you talking about the issues raised in the movie for days to come. We were invited to a sneak preview of the movie while in Chicago and were delighted to find out that the movie doesn't use the typical Hollywood tricks to entice kids.
While we've seen Benji movies in the past, this one is like a supercharged Benji. I was afraid that the film maker might have to use voice overs to tell the story, but it was so great to root for Benji and really care about his mission all as told simply through those big beautiful brown eyes. The incredible music didn't hurt either. I hope they put out a sound track!
Bravo to Benji, and my kids have told so many of their friends about the movie that we're getting a group together to have a real neighborhood movie experience on Saturday! Bravo for Benji! Many thumbs of all shapes and sizes way up for this one.
I didn't belong to this service, but when a review came up here which was diametrically opposed to what our wonderful experience was with this film, I just had to try to set the record straight.
CA
filmadikt18 August 2004
What an adorable movie! Anyone who walks away unaffected by these amazing dogs or the story has no heart. This time around Benji has a new sidekick and has to avoid a pair of bumbling dogcatchers, all while trying to rescue his sick mother from an evil dog breeder.
This is the perfect movie to take your family to without worrying about inappropriate content or language. This movie is funny, heartwarming and actually touches on serious topics that both adults and children can think about. The movie is never preachy yet it definitely has a message; this isn't your typical, brainless summer drivel. There's something for everyone here. I'd recommend this movie without any hesitation.
This is the perfect movie to take your family to without worrying about inappropriate content or language. This movie is funny, heartwarming and actually touches on serious topics that both adults and children can think about. The movie is never preachy yet it definitely has a message; this isn't your typical, brainless summer drivel. There's something for everyone here. I'd recommend this movie without any hesitation.
Irresistible!!
kellyjkit14 August 2004
I was so thrilled to be able to see this film at at preview press screening. And knowing how much I absolutely adored the Benji films growing up, I know I went in with what would probably be called unfairly ultra-high expectations. This film lived up to my expectations beyond my wildest dreams. Now, I don't think I have actually seen the other Benji films since they came out (the first in 1974 when I was 6). But the loving Benji dog in this one won my heart over from the first instant; so much so the animals outshine the humans (though I LOVE the dogcatchers!)! Try not to be late because you will miss some key things during the opening credits. And definitely sit through the closing credits for adorable behind-the-scenes footage with the dogs. Don't think you have to be a parent with kids to see and love this film. If you have any memory of the other Benji movies, run to see this film opening weekend!
Awsomely Wholesome
sandwburns27 May 2004
Can you believe? A film you can take your mom to? Yea!! Funny, funny, funny.....then you cry with happiness at the end. There is Benji, of course, but now he has a dufus sidekick named Lizard Tongue (you will see why when you see this great animal!) who stirs things up and causes all kinds of funny mayhem. And, there is a bird who will make you laugh until your side hurts. And, a nice young man who is trying to help Benji save his mother from a bad situation in a puppy mill. (That is the teary part.) It all adds up to entertainment with a purpose....to make you happy and make you feel good about going to the movies. The story is engaging and the scenes are beautifully shot. I hope many people get to see the new Benji.
Fairly wholesome, mostly mediocre
sdeyerle24 August 2004
I have to say that I read "Pasafist"'s review before seeing this with my daughter, and had some concerns. After seeing it, I do agree on many points, but wanted to add a little different perspective. I am the mother of a pretty savy and intuitive 4 year old. Not much escapes her. Still - most of the dark themes, because they are not part of our world, escaped her. She mostly just liked looking at the dogs. This movie did not capture her attention like other smarter films have (Nemo for example), but it was a cute diversion for her for awhile. I love good family / children's movies and watched them before I had a child, and found this one pretty mediocre. Still - since there is rarely something suitable on for the little guys, it nice to have something mostly wholesome. (Parental warning: The word "butthead" is used for laughs multiple times, and there is a scene with someone getting shot with a tranquilizer gun.)
When Dogs Have More Humanity Than Humans!!
Pasafist14 August 2004
I took less than detailed notes when sitting through BENJI: OFF THE LEASH. But one of the last things I wrote was a small one word review. I wrote "PUCK." I meant `PUKE'. But it was dark, so sue me.
Have you ever gone to movie that was geared for kids and after watching it you had that sick feeling in your stomach. Sure on the surface it seemed okay. But underneath, its actual message is dark and brooding. Well, here it is BENJI: OFF THE LEASH, a film about a bunch of adorable animals that is actually about animal abuse and a dysfunctional family about to collapse.
BENJI: OFF THE LEASH tells the story of two dogs neither of which is named Benji, a smart-aleck boy named Colby, his sociopathic father, his mentally withdrawn mother, a nutty old guy who talks to himself and dogs to a degree that seems unhealthy, and two bumbling dog catchers with hearts of gold. It's a lot of people and most of them are not connected.
You see Colby is a boy whose family is on the verge of collapse. His Dad is emotionally abusive. His mother just wants Colby to stop aggravating Dad. It seems Dad, who drinks (but you'd never know it cause in the course of the movie he only drinks two beers, even though the garbage can is full of them) beat his wife and Colby, and yet they still live there. Dad's also a rare dog breeder.
When Colby steels one of the rare dogs to save her, she mates with a mutt, and then give birth to'Puppy.' When Puppy's mother gets sick Puppy tries to rescue her from Colby's dad with the help of Lizard-Tongue, another stray in the neighborhood. Let the adorable adventures of Puppy and Lizard-Tongue commence.
I'll be the first to admit I'm not really the right person to review a film like this. But I did enjoy BENJI: THE HUNTED when I was a little boy. I still think it's one of the better animal films ever made. HUNTED's charm was the fact that BENJI, was a real dog. He didn't talk like the other adorable animals that've graced the silver screen and yet he had the same emotional attachment to his young audience.
In fact the strongest moments of OFF THE LEASH are the moments when the dogs are relating to each other. These moments feel masterful as the camera photographs these animals with some emotion and a lot of humanity.
Director (also writer, producer, and actor) Joe Camp loves animals. In fact every dog that has ever portrayed Benji has been a stray, rescued from a local area animal shelter. It's amazing that these dogs, many of which were abused or abandoned can be rescued and trained to work like pros. The film is at it best when he allows the camera to linger on the dogs and times barks so that we get a sense that they are talking. Those moments feel like old Silent movies. Camp actually allows the picture to tell the story, not dialogue. He also utilizes a nice musical soundtrack that helps move the action along and is about 80 percent of the time not distracting.
Where the movie goes way wrong is the human aspect. Every single character is badly drawn. They spout inane dialogue and are emotional retards. The very first thing Colby's dad does is throw Puppy across the room. (If you have an aversion to animal cruelty in any form I'd stay away from the film). So of course he's a jerk from minute one. He's so Jerky it's amazing that he's married and has a child. Honestly, the guy doesn't talk to anyone. He yells at people, a lot.
His character is so evil that it puts this weird, eerie darkness over the film. It's a strange portrait of a dysfunctional family. But the film still tries to play to the young crowd so on the surface there is this odd comedic tone. I think it's because the film human characters are stuck in a screenplay that is has very little subtlety. Making the characters feel unnatural and silly, instead of thoughtful and human. The film is being sold as a film about two adorable stray dogs trying to rescue their mother from the clutches of an evil dog breeder. But the film is really about how child abuse leads to animal abuse and will leave the adults in the room a real feeling of dread inside. To try and cover up this feeling, two stupid Dog Catchers and a guy, who looks like Santa Clause and talks like an inspirational calendar or greeting card are brought in the lighten things up. But they just seem to complicate the films narrative.
Will the film play to its intended audience? No, the worst part of this film is that it's boring. There is no life or color where the humans are concerned and they fill up most of this movie's 90 minute running time. Kids may watch it for a little while, maybe even be enchanted by the Dogs, but about 30 minutes in they'll be screaming to go home. My suggestion to the BENJI production team: Why not a series of shorts for the Disney channel or something, involving the dogs only? Kids will love it and you can stay away from writing stupid screenplay's involving stupid people.
BENJI: OFF THE LEASH was obviously made with lots of love and concern for abused and abandoned dogs all over the country. It wears its message right out in the open. It's just a shame the movie fails to charm or even entertain.
** out of 5
Have you ever gone to movie that was geared for kids and after watching it you had that sick feeling in your stomach. Sure on the surface it seemed okay. But underneath, its actual message is dark and brooding. Well, here it is BENJI: OFF THE LEASH, a film about a bunch of adorable animals that is actually about animal abuse and a dysfunctional family about to collapse.
BENJI: OFF THE LEASH tells the story of two dogs neither of which is named Benji, a smart-aleck boy named Colby, his sociopathic father, his mentally withdrawn mother, a nutty old guy who talks to himself and dogs to a degree that seems unhealthy, and two bumbling dog catchers with hearts of gold. It's a lot of people and most of them are not connected.
You see Colby is a boy whose family is on the verge of collapse. His Dad is emotionally abusive. His mother just wants Colby to stop aggravating Dad. It seems Dad, who drinks (but you'd never know it cause in the course of the movie he only drinks two beers, even though the garbage can is full of them) beat his wife and Colby, and yet they still live there. Dad's also a rare dog breeder.
When Colby steels one of the rare dogs to save her, she mates with a mutt, and then give birth to'Puppy.' When Puppy's mother gets sick Puppy tries to rescue her from Colby's dad with the help of Lizard-Tongue, another stray in the neighborhood. Let the adorable adventures of Puppy and Lizard-Tongue commence.
I'll be the first to admit I'm not really the right person to review a film like this. But I did enjoy BENJI: THE HUNTED when I was a little boy. I still think it's one of the better animal films ever made. HUNTED's charm was the fact that BENJI, was a real dog. He didn't talk like the other adorable animals that've graced the silver screen and yet he had the same emotional attachment to his young audience.
In fact the strongest moments of OFF THE LEASH are the moments when the dogs are relating to each other. These moments feel masterful as the camera photographs these animals with some emotion and a lot of humanity.
Director (also writer, producer, and actor) Joe Camp loves animals. In fact every dog that has ever portrayed Benji has been a stray, rescued from a local area animal shelter. It's amazing that these dogs, many of which were abused or abandoned can be rescued and trained to work like pros. The film is at it best when he allows the camera to linger on the dogs and times barks so that we get a sense that they are talking. Those moments feel like old Silent movies. Camp actually allows the picture to tell the story, not dialogue. He also utilizes a nice musical soundtrack that helps move the action along and is about 80 percent of the time not distracting.
Where the movie goes way wrong is the human aspect. Every single character is badly drawn. They spout inane dialogue and are emotional retards. The very first thing Colby's dad does is throw Puppy across the room. (If you have an aversion to animal cruelty in any form I'd stay away from the film). So of course he's a jerk from minute one. He's so Jerky it's amazing that he's married and has a child. Honestly, the guy doesn't talk to anyone. He yells at people, a lot.
His character is so evil that it puts this weird, eerie darkness over the film. It's a strange portrait of a dysfunctional family. But the film still tries to play to the young crowd so on the surface there is this odd comedic tone. I think it's because the film human characters are stuck in a screenplay that is has very little subtlety. Making the characters feel unnatural and silly, instead of thoughtful and human. The film is being sold as a film about two adorable stray dogs trying to rescue their mother from the clutches of an evil dog breeder. But the film is really about how child abuse leads to animal abuse and will leave the adults in the room a real feeling of dread inside. To try and cover up this feeling, two stupid Dog Catchers and a guy, who looks like Santa Clause and talks like an inspirational calendar or greeting card are brought in the lighten things up. But they just seem to complicate the films narrative.
Will the film play to its intended audience? No, the worst part of this film is that it's boring. There is no life or color where the humans are concerned and they fill up most of this movie's 90 minute running time. Kids may watch it for a little while, maybe even be enchanted by the Dogs, but about 30 minutes in they'll be screaming to go home. My suggestion to the BENJI production team: Why not a series of shorts for the Disney channel or something, involving the dogs only? Kids will love it and you can stay away from writing stupid screenplay's involving stupid people.
BENJI: OFF THE LEASH was obviously made with lots of love and concern for abused and abandoned dogs all over the country. It wears its message right out in the open. It's just a shame the movie fails to charm or even entertain.
** out of 5
Perfect movie about animal abuse, not for children!
tammys-228 August 2004
DO NOT TAKE YOUNG CHILDREN TO THIS MOVIE! I took my 2 young children, 6 and 3 along with a another mom and her 2 children, same ages...anxious to see a cheerful, cute Benji adventure like we were kids was a far cry from what this movie portrayed...the first scene where the alcoholic, clearly child and animal abusive father angrily tossed the Benji puppy across the floor and verbally hoped that he died was only the start...I'm a former employee of the SPCA of Texas so I know the message of animal abuse, puppy mills all too well...I can support educating adults and children on this but this was too strong for young children by far.
Joe Camp used the Benji name to draw parents in to get his message across. He should have made a G rated one as well that we could enjoy and not feel sick about...it's not the way I want to spend an afternoon with my kids. The abusive father was a great actor, you hated him more than life itself and wanted to kill him the way he did to the dogs he abused, i.e. the puppy he placed in a tied up bag then tossed into a river simply b/c he didn't want it. Thanks Joe. I hope you're taking the proceeds to animal charities for what our children went through today.
Joe Camp used the Benji name to draw parents in to get his message across. He should have made a G rated one as well that we could enjoy and not feel sick about...it's not the way I want to spend an afternoon with my kids. The abusive father was a great actor, you hated him more than life itself and wanted to kill him the way he did to the dogs he abused, i.e. the puppy he placed in a tied up bag then tossed into a river simply b/c he didn't want it. Thanks Joe. I hope you're taking the proceeds to animal charities for what our children went through today.
I love this film.
eat-518 August 2004
Benji Off the Leash! is no one-trick-pony. The film should win audiences of all ages and defrost even the most hardened canine-phobe. Both the movie and the mutt are that good.
Movies targeted for family trade often seem designed by committees hoping to lure all demographics. Happily, Benji Off the Leash! attains purity in every sense of the word; unlike many films of any genre, it reflects a unified vision. Benji producer/director/screenwriter Joe Camp has not stooped to conquer.
In direction, story construction, camera-work and performances both human and canine, Benji Off the Leash! is the best of the Benji canon. Its two-legged hero is Colby, a stalwart youngster who loves dogs. Its two-legged villain is Colby's harsh father, whose appropriate last name is Hatchett. He runs an illegal dog mill and mistreats all beings, both two-legged and four-legged.
Colby and Benji have parallel plights, dealing with the rescue of loved ones and strong maternal bonds.
Benji Off the Leash! has serious undercurrents, but it never turns grim. The film's canine comic foil is a character named Lizard Tongue, whom Benji befriends and then probably wonders if making friends with the rascally Lizard Tongue was a wise move. Two goofy dogcatchers and one eccentric recluse provide the human comedy.
As before, Mr. Camp films the canine scenes from the dogs' perspectives, and the desire to reach out and touch is irresistible. Benji interacts gamely with Lizard Tongue, a chatty parrot named Merlin and even a cow. Don Reddy's cinematography exquisitely captures each moment.
With eyes born for movie camera close-ups, Benji is a female mixed-breed terrier, three and one-half years of age. She is a wonder-dog, but she doesn't hog the show. As played by Shaggy, a dog from the south side of Chicago, Lizard Tongue is also one formidable scene-stealer.
Two-legged stars also fare well. Nick Whitaker has the essential soulfulness for Colby, while Duane Stephens has some hilarious bits as the goofier of the two dogcatchers. Mr. Stephens also sings a lilting "It Had To Be You" over the closing credits. Neal Barth relishes each moment as town eccentric Zacharia Finch, fond of improvising quotes from phony sources.
Calling a movie "the best of its kind" often has a condescending tone. In the case of Benji Off the Leash!, no condescension is warranted. This Benji's a beaut, for all ages. Woof.
Benji Off the Leash!
Movies targeted for family trade often seem designed by committees hoping to lure all demographics. Happily, Benji Off the Leash! attains purity in every sense of the word; unlike many films of any genre, it reflects a unified vision. Benji producer/director/screenwriter Joe Camp has not stooped to conquer.
In direction, story construction, camera-work and performances both human and canine, Benji Off the Leash! is the best of the Benji canon. Its two-legged hero is Colby, a stalwart youngster who loves dogs. Its two-legged villain is Colby's harsh father, whose appropriate last name is Hatchett. He runs an illegal dog mill and mistreats all beings, both two-legged and four-legged.
Colby and Benji have parallel plights, dealing with the rescue of loved ones and strong maternal bonds.
Benji Off the Leash! has serious undercurrents, but it never turns grim. The film's canine comic foil is a character named Lizard Tongue, whom Benji befriends and then probably wonders if making friends with the rascally Lizard Tongue was a wise move. Two goofy dogcatchers and one eccentric recluse provide the human comedy.
As before, Mr. Camp films the canine scenes from the dogs' perspectives, and the desire to reach out and touch is irresistible. Benji interacts gamely with Lizard Tongue, a chatty parrot named Merlin and even a cow. Don Reddy's cinematography exquisitely captures each moment.
With eyes born for movie camera close-ups, Benji is a female mixed-breed terrier, three and one-half years of age. She is a wonder-dog, but she doesn't hog the show. As played by Shaggy, a dog from the south side of Chicago, Lizard Tongue is also one formidable scene-stealer.
Two-legged stars also fare well. Nick Whitaker has the essential soulfulness for Colby, while Duane Stephens has some hilarious bits as the goofier of the two dogcatchers. Mr. Stephens also sings a lilting "It Had To Be You" over the closing credits. Neal Barth relishes each moment as town eccentric Zacharia Finch, fond of improvising quotes from phony sources.
Calling a movie "the best of its kind" often has a condescending tone. In the case of Benji Off the Leash!, no condescension is warranted. This Benji's a beaut, for all ages. Woof.
Benji Off the Leash!
Stay Away from this film!
cepjtp30 August 2004
This has to be one of the worst films I have seen in a VERY long time! I brought three 4 year old children to see this movie. They were either bored stiff, or terrified throughout the whole movie. I expected to see the Benji movies I saw growing up. How wrong I was! The only wholesomeness I saw was from a few select scenes provided by the dogs. The movie focused on an abusive man, to his family and the dogs he breeded! The acting throughout the entire movie was stiff, bland and horrible! I have seen better acting in grammer school plays! The story line could have been so much better acted out! Do yourself, and your family and friends, a favor by staying away from this disastrous movie!
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