I'm back to continue talking about dog movies with you here this week! Our movie this week is Benji. This was the third most popular movie at the box office in 1974.
Benji tells the story of an adorable, shaggy mixed breed dog. Benji is a stray, but he picks out the perfect family. The only problem? The father in the family does not like dogs! When the children in the family are kidnapped, Benji saves the day ... and finds the perfect family as a result!
Benji was portrayed by Higgins the dog. Higgins was rescued from the Burbank Animal Shelter by dog trainer Frank Inn. He was a Poodle - Cocker Spaniel - Schnauzer mix. He made guest appearances on Green Acres and The Beverly Hillbillies, but found fame when he portrayed "Dog" on Petticoat Junction. He had already retired, but came out of retirement to play Benji in this movie. He retired again afterward and lived to the fine old age of 18!
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| Higgins the Dog with his person, Frank Inn |
This was the final movie of Edgar Buchanan (Uncle Joe from Petticoat Junction) and Frances Bavier (Aunt Bee from The Andy Griffith Show).
It is said that Alfred Hitchcock considered Benji a favorite guilty pleasure.
Here is the movie trailer for this 1974 film:
Have you seen Benji? Do you have any other dog movies you would like to recommend? I'd love to hear from you in the comments, below.
Love,
Abby xoxoxo
I remember seeing that movie in the theaters and loved it.I recently watched A Dog's Purpose and was not very well entertained. I wish they had added some more action.
ReplyDeleteWell it has been years since I Have watched Benji! I really need to give it a rewatch!
ReplyDeleteBenji has always been one of my favorite movies! It's a great family movie and he's soooo darn smart and cute! Your post has made me want to watch it again!
ReplyDeleteI loved the movie. A famous mixed breed dog, he sure was a cutie. I loved seeing some classics stars retire on such a great movie!
ReplyDeleteI loved the movie, Benji so much as a kid! Such a great family friendly film.
ReplyDeleteI have a bunch I'd recommend, but wouldn't suggest them for you. The dogs don't fare too well in some of the ones I like (Old Yeller...)
ReplyDeleteThanks, friends! I enjoyed reading your comments.
ReplyDeleteAbby
My son is ten. I can't believe I've never thought to show him Benji!!
ReplyDeleteI remember this movie from when I was little! My kids will get a kick out of it & probably mock me because it's old which means I'm ancient.
ReplyDeleteWe always love movies with dogs! Benji is such a classic. I have to get a copy and watch it with my grandchildren. Oh, you were asking about suggestions for movies with dogs? Try Hachiko. You will love that. Richard Gere is the lead actor. Piece of advice though. Have a box of tissues beside you when you watch it.
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet movie! I never saw Benji before but now I need to! Will have to see how I can either rent or buy this movie.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by! I appreciate your comments and dog movie suggestions!
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