The Call of the Wild Movie Review

The Call of the Wild is one of the most recognized books of the 20th century. It is one that has been read by literally tens of millions since it was first published back in 1903. This was inspired by author Jack London's experience in the Yukon. There have been several adaptations over the years. This one does a fairly good job of trying to be accurate to the book, but has changes, which is no surprise with any of these adaptations.

Story-wise, it is centered on the dog, Buck. He is pampered and causes mischief. With the gold rush in the Yukon reaching an all time high, a Santa Clara citizen kidnaps him and ships him off to there and work as a sled dog. From there, the St. Bernard goes on various adventures with a team of dogs and whatever owners own him. Along the way, he meets John Thornton, who has had his share of troubles with family.

Considering the standards of animal rights these days, there is a bit of computer generated stuff throughout it. There is no way that they were going to do this with PETA coming in if things went south. And even then, teaching dogs to act is not easy. Terry Notary plays Buck and the CG and mannerisms help the performance. I know it ruins the authenticity for some, but for something like this, I don't think there was much choice.

As far as the adaptation goes, I would say it does a great job covering most of the story. Like I said, there is changes. You don't see any major deaths until late in it. They do alter the mid part and end of the book in this version. I look at this being a PG movie and not wanting to be completely dark. Not to mention there are a few parts at the end that are rather insensitive if they had filmed those parts. Even with this being PG, this is not a kids film. This is for adults. If you do take your kid to it, I'd be weary of a couple scenes.

I like the cinematography quite a bit. A lot of good use of color lighting for a number of scenes. There is a music score throughout the entire film and it is excellent. Harrison Ford plays John Thornton well and the writers make him someone you sympathize for. Dan Stevens' few scenes as Hal provide conflict in place of the original scenes. I enjoyed Omar Sy and Cara Gee's scenes early on as Buck's first caregivers in the Yukon.  The sledding parts were a blast and can put you on edge. It moves at a good pace. There isn't too much to say.

I don't have any real complaints. Maybe one or two scenes that drag and that it's not completely faithful. Considering other adaptations takes, this is more than likely the best one. A plot that stays true to the book somewhat. Nothing convoluted. The Call of the Wild is one I would check out in the theater before it gets pulled. Definitely enjoyable.

Score: 8 out of 10