9/10
Wonderful, memorable, amusing film for everyone who is young at heart
13 February 2005
Billy is a 10 year old boy who is set to visit his father on Catalina Island. His mother and stepfather don't really show him much affection but they refuse to let Billy live with his father. This is because William, the dad, is a wacky inventor who does not have a steady income, as of yet. Once on Catalina, Billy finds an injured dog and he and his dad take the canine to visit a pretty veterinarian, who also has a daughter, Emily; she is near Billy's age. The four of them befriend each other. Billy, however, has a secret. The dog can talk to him! He needs Billy's help in finding his owner, who may have been kidnapped. Can Billy and Emily solve the mystery, with help, of course, from conversations with and encouragement from the dog? This film is an absolute joy, from beginning to end. From policemen in their underwear to Billy pretending to be blind and more, this story unfolds with a laugh at every turn. The dog is adorable, the children are sweet without being coy, and the parents are appropriately befuddled, yet charming. The sight gags alone are a wonderful reason to give this film a try. Catalina Island's beauty is also something to treasure. It may take some searching but parents everywhere should try to locate this film at a library or video store. No bones about it, this film would make a happy memory for any child or for one who is young at heart.
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