Review Summary
5 Star
0
12%
4 Star
0
36%
3 Star
0
39%
2 Star
0
3%
1 Star
0
3%
Recommendations
- Acting 6%94%
- Direction 19%81%
- Story 10%90%
- Visuals 13%87%
Top Review
Sid
The movie The Call of the Wild is adopted from Jack London's classic 1903 novel, The Call of The Wild is set in the Yukon during the 1890s Klondike Gold Rush. The story centers on the St. Bernard/ Scotch Collie dog named Buck who was stolen from his family and sent to work as sled dog.
When experienced outdoorsman John Thornton comes across the ill treated Buck, the man saves the dog's life, and they go on the adventure of the lifetime together through some of the most beautiful terrain in the world.
Recommendations
The Call of the Wild
-
4
31 Reviews
- Genre : Drama,Adventure
- Runtime : 1h 50m
- Cast : Harrison Ford, Omar Sy, Dan Stevens, Karen Gillan
- Director : Chris Sanders
- Producer : Erwin Stoff
- Language : English
- Release Date : 21 Feb 2020
- Rating : PG
Reviews
Santhosh posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Parents need to know that The Call of the Wild is a family-friendly adaptation of Jack London's classic novel. Starring Harrison Ford, it's a simpler, somewhat sanitized take on the book -- which makes it more appropriate for younger viewers -- but the themes and messages of London's story are still as crisp as a Yukon sunrise. Canine hero Buck and his friends are often in peril; the dogs escape it, but humans, not always. Buck suffers one significant hit from a human on-screen, and additional animal abuse is implied through taunts, the sound and verbal acknowledgement of a whip, and seeing dogs passed out, pushed beyond their limit. Ford's character, John Thornton, stands up to Buck's owner about this cruel treatment, and Buck stands up to his pack's alpha dog, Spitz, who also behaves with bullying behavior. There's an epic dog fight as a result, but both animals end up fine (the same unfortunately can't be said for a cute rabbit that's killed by a mean dog). The movie is set on the frontier, where the saloon is the center of the community. Alcohol flows, but drinking is negatively portrayed, and Buck actually teaches temperance. The theme of this story has always been that life is a two-sided coin: You'll encounter the good with the bad, the great with the terrible, moments of danger and moments of security. Life is unfair, but it's also what you make of it, with new beginnings and final endings. And through the eyes of a CGI dog set against gorgeous scenery, it's an exhilarating family experience with themes of courage, perseverance, and teamwork.
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Nithish posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
The Call of The Wild well made book to movie, incredibly made movie. Buck is an extremely likable BIG & very Smart who goes on a compelling journey into the wilderness. Despite being a dog and not having a word of dialogue, Buck is an incredibly interesting, for a Big St Bernard and very life like , the CGI used to bring him to life is amazing. While it doesn't always look natural, Buck's CGI model is so expressive and can cause the viewer to experience a variety of different emotions, despite not even being there. The movie brings back memories when I read the book in 9th grade. Harrison Ford also does well as the elderly, depressed John Thornton, carrying a great deal of tragedy and mystery about his past throughout the movie. The movie also features stunning cinematography, with several beautiful shots and camera angles. It's a true joy to watch. The Call of the Wild is a familiar but heartwarming adventure that's surprisingly funny and emotional. Chris Sanders' direction is great and there are some thrilling set pieces. The novel is beautifully written and also heartbreaking. The movie pulls at the heart strings enough to be effective without ripping said heart apart. Lots of kids and laughs in the theater. Go and see it.
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Nancy posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
There has been a lot of controversy surrounding this film, due to the fact that they decided to use a CGI dog instead of a real one. I thought this would bother me when I was watching the film, but I have to admit that I really didn't mind this decision. In fact, I think it might have been the right decision, based on how Buck fitted into the story. The acting across the movie was solid. I can't say that this was the best that Harrison Ford has even been because he has played the iconic characters of Han Solo and Indiana Jones, but I might be prepared to say that this is the best he has ever been outside of those franchises. I loved his performance, and the way he interacted with Buck was charming and sweet. The story was moving and I enjoyed watching it, but I wish there has been a bit more depth to it. The ending of the film hit me with emotion, but I feel like another layer of depth to the characters would have made it all the more impactful. The pacing was also a little off, but it didn't bother me too much. There were some absolutely gorgeous visuals and that really pleased me. The film is by no means a perfect film and I would have liked it to have a few more layers than it did, but I can't deny that I was moved and charmed by the story and I would definitely recommend to check it out.
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Vinish posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
I went to this movie with little expectation. I was surprised at how much I liked it. It was funny at times and sad. The scenery is beautiful. The fact that the dog is computer generated didnt bother me at all. They should make more movies like this to enjoy with your family. Also confirms that I mostly disagree with critics.
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Sanki posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
The film looks bright and crisp. The scenery is quite immersive. I almost know what it feels like to actually ride on a dog sled. Speaking of dog sleds, the animation with the dogs is sometimey. I'll admit most of the time the animation portrays the dog's emotions and expressions flawlessly. The other part of the time I feel like I'm watching a cartoon, a la Garfield, Scooby Doo animation. Quite frankly, it's off-putting. I wanted to forget that I was watching CGI creatures but the quality of these effects just kept on reminding me (I'm looking at you mystic wolf).
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Tineesh posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Even though Harrison Ford is billed as the star, his story doesn't start until an hour into the movie. First, we watch the protagonist pooch get kidnapped and transported to Gold Rush Alaska, where he's conscripted into a sled dog team to deliver the mail. None of this matters because the script is so excessively precious and corny. Making matters SO much worse is the horribly computerized canine creation. Not only do they anthropomorphize him to an absurd degree, but they have him doing things that no dog could ever intuit, much less perform. I'd say the scenery is beautiful, but not sure how much of that is computer generated either.
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Nithin posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
This is a much more successful use of digital effects than the recent version of The Lion King. It takes a couple of minutes to get used to Buck not being a real dog but after that you just roll with it. Harrison Ford gives one of his best and most charming recent performances. Omar Sy and Cara Gee are also exceptionally good. The landscapes are wonderful and it is a thrilling tale well told. Don’t believe the critics that didn’t like it. This is a great film.
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Sajan posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
A story about the journey of dog who seemingly had it all but is quickly thrown into the wild to discover himself. The main protagonist of the film is Buck, a CGI canine that is funny and quirky enough as we see him grow into the leader and alpha dog he needed to be. The plot of the film is nothing new or clever but has plenty of fun interactions of more CGI dogs that is just enough to make this film passable. Harrison Ford gives a good performance for the minimal screen time he is given. The movie never really shows us why the story of Buck had to really happen it all just kind of does as well as Ford's character has some background but not enough to satisfy his arc. It's a movie safe enough to watch with the family albeit it is an adorably mediocre movie.
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Banu posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
The Call of The Wild is a solid, incredibly well made movie. Buck is an extremely likable protagonist who goes on a compelling journey of self discovery. Despite being a dog and not having a word of dialogue, Buck is an incredibly interesting, three dimensional character with a well developed arc. The CGI used to bring him to life is amazing. While it doesn't always look natural, Buck's CGI model is so expressive and can cause the viewer to experience a variety of different emotions, despite not even being there. Harrison Ford also does well as the elderly, depressed John Thornton, carrying a great deal of tragedy and mystery about his past throughout the movie. The movie also features stunning cinematography, with several beautiful shots and camera angles. It's a true joy to watch. The Call of the Wild is a familiar but heartwarming adventure that's surprisingly funny and emotional. Chris Sanders' direction is great and there are some thrilling set pieces. It's well filmed, well paced and the music by John Powell is fantastic. The novel is beautifully written and also heartbreaking. The movie pulls at the heart strings enough to be effective without ripping said heart apart. Lots of kids and laughs in the theatre. Go and see it.
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Loki posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Thiis movie does'nt follow the exact storyline of the classic Jack London book, it still is entertaining and fun to watch. I don't think all the people giving low numbers are being fair to the experience of watching this adaption. It's well worth the time spent to see for yourself. Just let go of any preconceived notions or expectations and let yourself enjoy this really great family film.
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Ram posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
This is one of the most incredible movies I've ever seen. Although the dog looked fake at times, the cinematography was stunning. The sunsets and wildlife were amazing and it was visually exiting. Some elements seemed rushed at moments, and you felt what Buck felt. I don't want to spoil anything, but all in all, this movie is definitely worth anyone with an eye for a good story will appreciate it.
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Niki posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Harrison Ford gives a really good performance here. One of his best in many years.Buck the CGI dog is the real co-star as well even though he is CGI the team of animators did a great job on bringing him to life in such a successful way. Harrison Ford does a great job interacting with him as well. The locations & environments were stunning as were all the action sequences. Music by John Powell was very effective. The supporting cast were also good & Chris Sanders did a great job with the direction bringing it all together in such a seamless way.
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Ranjith posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
The Call of the Wild proves that you can teach an old dog new tricks. Thanks to a cute puppy and charming characters, Jack London’s classic novel, which has translated poorly to the big screen thus far, finally comes to life here. And it’s mostly thanks to CGI. Yes we’ve seen this plot countless times, ever since the book, The Call of the Wild was published in 1903. Since then, there have been dozens of both film and literary adaptations, dating as far back as a silent version in 1923. Wild has been tackled by actors such as Clark Gable and Charlton Heston, and its influence can be seen everywhere. Kids still read it in school. Hemingway and Dos Passos were inspired by it at an early age. And we wouldn’t have movies like Old Yeller, Marley & Me and A Dog’s Purpose without it. So why did it take 117 years for a film to finally capture London’s waggish wit? In this film’s case technology makes it possible. Buck, the book’s beloved canine hero, is a product of motion-capture-work. He’s the size of two dogs combined, and his stomach makes him a prisoner of his own instincts. When dog-nappers tempt him with food, Buck licks his digital chops, then follows the scent. These baddies take him to Alaska, where he’s sold to a local mailman, Perrault (Omar Sy), who leads a pack of sled dogs. Through dense forests and empty tundras, past avalanches and herds of deer, Buck guides his crew and the audience in thrilling chase sequences that make the most of the 125 million dollar budget. The whole film is a joyride. Produced by 20th Century Studios–Disney’s new label for 20th Century Fox– The Call of the Wild is more concerned with entertaining the whole family than exploring London’s themes of nature vs. civilization. But that’s OK. Because Buck is so adorable, and civilization here is so amiable, you’ll be happy to go along for the ride.
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Jeny posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
A well crafted family film, The Call of the Wild provides a cinematic experience your whole brood can enjoy.Harison Ford delivers his typical Harrison Ford character performance., at times gruff, self serving but with a heart of gold driving him from within. This iteration adds grizzled to the mix.The missing fifth star is because cgi, although vastly superior to what it was just a couple of years ago, still has hiccups that render the animals as less than. Once the movie really starts rolling you get used to it and notice it less and less.For purist fans of the original Jack London source material there are significant changes made. Thematically, though, the movie is in sync with the book.
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Abish posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
The Call of the Wild is a familiar but heartwarming adventure that's surprisingly funny and emotional. Chris Sanders' direction is great and there are some thrilling set pieces. It's well filmed, well paced and the music by John Powell is fantastic. Harrison Ford also does well as the elderly, depressed John Thornton, carrying a great deal of tragedy and mystery about his past throughout the movie.
- Acting, Direction, Story, Visuals
- 0
- 0
Jerin posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
The Call of The Wild is a solid, incredibly well made movie. Buck is an extremely likable protagonist who goes on a compelling journey of self discovery. Despite being a dog and not having a word of dialogue, Buck is an incredibly interesting, three dimensional character with a well developed arc. The CGI used to bring him to life is amazing. While it doesn't always look natural, Buck's CGI model is so expressive and can cause the viewer to experience a variety of different emotions, despite not even being there.
- Acting, Direction, Story, Visuals
- 0
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Riju posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
In the year 1903, author Jack London published this novel named The Call of the Wild. Based on the story of the novel, director Chris Sanders made the movie very masterfully. The central character of the movie but surrounded by a dog. The movie is good enough and can be seen by everyone in the family. The film stars Harrison Ford, Dan Stevens and others. I like Harrison Ford's acting. It's like remembering the visual effects of a movie. The animation is very realistic and the background music is superb. Finally, it is difficult to portray a classic adventure novel like this on the big screen. From this point on, the director has been able to articulate it fairly. I loved the movie. Directed by: Chris Sanders Novel by: Jack London Produced by: Erwin Stoff Rating: PG Duration: 1 hour 40 min Genre: Adventure, Family Drama Release Date: 21/02/2020 Cast: Harrison Ford, Colin Woodell, Karen Gillan, Dan Stevens, Bradley Whitford, Omar Sy and others. My Verdict: Plot - 4.5/5 Soundtrack - 4/5 Characters - 4.5/5 Directions - 4.5/5
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Siva posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Harrison Ford let it slip on Jimmy Kimmel that the dog in Call Of The Wild is CGI. No duh. Too bad they couldn't have done that with Harrison Ford. I honestly think he stopped acting 40 years ago. Or should have. (The original Blade Runner was good though) Hey--the American Kennel Club gives it five stars. What more do you need? Word to grandparents thinking about bringing Billy or Sally to the movies: this is about a man and his relationship with a dog. A fake dog. And it's about so much more--but mainly it's about Harrison Ford making more money so he can crash-land his helicopter on more golf courses. Lots of fake, heartwarming, green screen moments. Personally I'd take the grandkids to a museum--maybe a monster truck rally. FGS--don't take kids to this boring, feel good, "family" film. There's absolutely nothing they can relate to. Except an anthropomorphized K9 that makes really creepy looking human faces. Yeah--actually kids might like that. Guess what I'm saying is I don't care
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Sid posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
The movie The Call of the Wild is adopted from Jack London's classic 1903 novel, The Call of The Wild is set in the Yukon during the 1890s Klondike Gold Rush. The story centers on the St. Bernard/ Scotch Collie dog named Buck who was stolen from his family and sent to work as sled dog. When experienced outdoorsman John Thornton comes across the ill treated Buck, the man saves the dog's life, and they go on the adventure of the lifetime together through some of the most beautiful terrain in the world.
- Acting, Direction, Story, Visuals
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Agrippa posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
The 'professional' movie critics have seen too many movies they forget the magic of them. I didn't have any expectations like the folks i mentioned, yet I surprisingly and not surprisingly love it. Yes the characters are cliché. But who cares. It provides for good entertainment that kids, especially, will love. I mean who doesn't love a huge smart and caring dog. The dogs are so realistic that i couldn't find any CGI flaw. Their expressions were far better than the (acclaimed) Lion King last rendition. I have 2 dogs, a small and a big one. I can tell you that the dogs expressions and reactions are spot on without being out of touch like the Lion
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Vartika posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Stunning visual effects that transport the audience into the beautiful setting of Alaskan frontier but the movie felt rushed and segmented. There were very distinct chapters with no cohesive links to establish a smooth flow for the movie. The story has little to do with the novel and was very unrealistic.
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Chandru posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
It was ok, the middle school aged kids will love Buck. The scenery was beautiful. The characters were good except the rich dude with his drunk girl friend and scummy friend. His acting was over the top in Snidely Whiplash territory. Harrison was good and I liked the two mail carriers. Now, if you read Jack London's book, you probably will be very disappointed and maybe a bit peeved that the writers of this movie script were so damned lazy. The movie felt rushed and segmented. There were very distinct chapters with no cohesive links to establish a smooth flow for the movie. Also, the writers just had to insert the PC culture in there which really irritates me. Does only a very shallow nod to London's original story but that is the quality of a lot of movies today. What a shame because this had the potential for an incredible movie. My overall feeling after watching this movie was disappointment.
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Gejoe posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
This is a great family movie. It has all the aspects of what makes kids smile. However, this is not the adaption of Jack London's book that I was looking for. In my opinion, in searching for that feel good vibe, it lost the character that defined the original story. Everything was made PG and the raw unforgiving reality of the book was lost in translation. Additionally, the CGI was good, but over used to the nth degree. Its worth a watch, just keep in mind that this movie is a rather loose adaptation.
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Lime posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Nice story in some ways. Understand it's a family/kids movie, but I didn't enjoy it. I was bored at times and looking at my watch counting down the time until it ended. The CGI dogs just didn't do it for me - at times they did seem real but others you could obviously tell they weren't. The up and down story also would be pretty confusing to some younger people. Harrison Ford is just now milking what ever he could muster up from Hollywood.
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Babu posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
The Call of the Wild is a fair adventure film about a dog named Buck who was never fitted to be a house dog. But gets kidnapped and sold to a dog sled team of a mail carrier. If you are a dog lover or love adventure movies that takes place during the Klondike gold rush than you will also love this movie. The movie is decent. It has some exciting action sequences but I did feel like the cgi on the dog Buck or other animals in the movie were kind of cheesy. The production settings of the beautiful scenery is amazing. The cast was okay as well. And the plot was kind of thin.
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Pandi posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
A dog is taken on a journey from household pet to working in the wilderness.A great re-telling of a classic adventure. It made me laugh, it made me sad, and there are thrills, escapes and triumphs. I expected to be distracted by Buck being a CGI dog but I very quickly accepted him as a character. The book's harsher treatments of Buck are toned down but I still felt his struggle. The photography, scenery and cast are excellent.
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Rolen posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Such a lovely story about friendship, dedication, loyalty, and amazing cuteness throughout! Very cute well worthy RPX experience, I'm very pleased with everything that occurs! Harrison Ford is still awesome at his age which is impressive for someone in his mid 70's. I absolutely love adventure stories and Call of the Wild is well done for what it is.
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Ester posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
I have read the original book, I have seen the remakes, yet I was surprised by how this story unfolded and how it was told from the dogs perspective. A fun family movie that is very entertaining. I was interested in watching because of the movies name and Harrison Ford, But was surprised at who the real Star was. I highly recommend taking the family and enjoying yourselves.
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Deep posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Harrison Ford let it slip on Jimmy Kimmel that the dog in Call Of The Wild is CGI. No duh. Too bad they couldn't have done that with Harrison Ford. I honestly think he stopped acting 40 years ago. Or should have. (The original Blade Runner was good though) Hey--the American Kennel Club gives it five stars. What more do you need? Word to grandparents thinking about bringing Billy or Sally to the movies: this is about a man and his relationship with a dog. A fake dog. And it's about so much more--but mainly it's about Harrison Ford making more money so he can crash-land his helicopter on more golf courses. Lots of fake, heartwarming, green screen moments. Personally I'd take the grandkids to a museum,maybe a monster truck rally. FGS--don't take kids to this boring, feel good, "family" film. There's absolutely nothing they can relate to. Except an anthropomorphized K9 that makes really creepy looking human faces. Yeah--actually kids might like that. Guess what I'm saying is I don't care.
- Acting, Direction, Story, Visuals
- 0
- 0
Rakesh posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
Based on Jack London's 1903 classic adventure novel, I remember being so invested with this coming-of-age story that dives deep into the theme of self-discovery. Last year was when I relaxed myself in reading this front to back for the first time while touring Cape Cod with the family. It's essentially the story of a fearless sled dog named Buck, whose great intelligence and strength is realized when he sets out on an incredible journey in discovering his true place in the world. Along the way, he was under the command of various masters, each with their own different mindset. It wasn't until John Thornton (Harrison Ford) came into the scene when the movie really started to take shape. This was when Buck was given the opportunity of a lifetime in experiencing the real world and all the consequences that come with it as time goes by. Seeing that I'm such an avid fan of the classic novel, I was thoroughly impressed with this family-friendly take on the timeless story. Nearly all the familiar themes and messages from it's counterpart that I can recall are here to stay, including a memorable performance from Mr. Ford himself as the gifted caretaker. I wasn't, however, a fan of some of the early caretakers, especially Hal, who was represented as such a cruel master to the sled dogs, that for almost every minute he's on-screen, I'd just want to see Buck let out his temper on him. There were a couple times where he actually managed to do just that, but only for a short time period because he was restrained. I won't give away the ending if anyone's curious in seeing this, but I was absolutely crushed by what this guy did to Ford's character. In conclusion, to anyone out there who's familiar with this all-time great and is wanting to watch a satisfying adaptation with everything they could hope for (especially from the great Harrison Ford), then this would be the movie they're looking for. It's also interesting to note that this very same flick (which was based on 20th Century Pictures' 1935 adaptation, their final distributed film) would become the first ever film released by 20th Century Studios. That alone just goes to show how much of an impact this story had when it first came to be over 100 years ago.
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Raguram posted a review for The Call of the Wild in Movies
From the stunning visual effects that transport the audience into the beautiful setting of Alaskan frontier, to the brilliant acting of the cast who bring life and meaning to the rugged characters of the film, to the thrilling plot that causes an edge of the seat reaction, this film has it all. Watching this inspirational journey of a dog and his best friend, I was filled with both moments of bubbling laughter and heartfelt tears. I highly recommend this film to any viewer who loves adventure, humor, and a deep, confronting message.
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