The Call of the Wild (2020)
Synopsis:
Buck is a big-hearted dog living a comfortable domestic life in California until he's suddenly uprooted and transported to the rugged Yukon wilderness during the Gold Rush of the 1890s. Thrust into an unfamiliar and challenging environment, Buck joins a mail delivery dog sled team as the newest rookie, where he must adapt to harsh conditions and learn to work alongside his fellow sled dogs. As he gains experience and confidence, Buck rises to become the team's leader, embarking on extraordinary adventures through the frozen landscape. Along his journey, he crosses paths with John Thornton and other memorable characters who shape his transformation. Through these experiences in the wild, Buck discovers his true nature and purpose, ultimately finding where he truly belongs and learning to become his own master in the untamed wilderness.
Where To Watch: The Call of the Wild
Parental Feedback
The Call of the Wild offers a sweeping adventure that balances heartwarming moments with emotional intensity as it follows a dog's journey from comfortable domesticity to the rugged wilderness of the Yukon during the Gold Rush era. Parents should expect a story that explores themes of survival, loyalty, and self-discovery, with sequences that may be emotionally challenging for sensitive viewers. The pacing moves between gentle character moments and more intense action sequences involving harsh weather conditions and perilous situations that Buck and his companions face in the unforgiving northern landscape.
Why Kids Should Watch The Call of the Wild
This adaptation of a legendary novel provides several meaningful experiences for young viewers seeking adventure and heart.
The story celebrates the bond between humans and animals through Buck's relationships with various characters, particularly John Thornton, showing how trust and companionship can develop even in challenging circumstances. These connections demonstrate the depth of loyalty and mutual respect possible between species.
Buck's transformation from a pampered pet to a confident leader of a mail delivery dog sled team offers an inspiring narrative about discovering one's true potential and inner strength. His journey encourages viewers to embrace challenges and find courage when facing unfamiliar situations.
The exotic wilds of the Yukon provide a visually stunning backdrop that introduces families to a unique historical period and geographic setting. The Gold Rush era and the demanding work of sled dog teams offer educational value about a fascinating chapter in North American history.
The adventure elements keep the story engaging while exploring deeper themes about finding where one truly belongs and the importance of becoming one's own master. These universal messages resonate across age groups and spark meaningful family discussions.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch The Call of the Wild
Despite its family-friendly classification, certain elements may concern parents of younger or more sensitive children.
The harsh realities of survival in the Yukon wilderness include depictions of difficult conditions that dogs and humans endure, which may be distressing for animal-loving children. The demanding nature of sled dog work and the dangers of the frontier environment create tense moments throughout.
Characters like Hal, Charles, and Mercedes represent less sympathetic human behavior, and their treatment of the animals and poor decision-making in dangerous situations may upset younger viewers. These antagonistic elements are necessary to the story but can be uncomfortable to watch.
The emotional arc involves Buck being suddenly uprooted from his blissful domestic life in California, a traumatic change that mirrors themes of loss and displacement. Children who have experienced moves or separations may find these elements particularly affecting, and the ultimate resolution involves Buck choosing wilderness over domesticity, which could prompt complex feelings.
Verdict: Parent Approved
The Call of the Wild earns approval for families with children ready for an emotionally rich adventure that handles mature themes of survival, loyalty, and self-discovery with appropriate restraint for its PG-13 rating.
What Parents Should Know About The Call of the Wild
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, Buck demonstrates loyalty, perseverance, and courage, while John Thornton models compassion and respect for animals, offering clear examples of positive character traits. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, Buck's separation from his comfortable home, the harsh conditions of the Yukon wilderness, and the challenges faced by the sled dog team create several emotionally intense sequences. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, characters who treat animals poorly or make reckless decisions in the dangerous wilderness face natural consequences for their actions throughout the story. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, Buck's role on the mail delivery dog sled team and his eventual position as leader emphasize the importance of cooperation, trust, and working together toward common goals. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, the story conveys messages about finding one's true place in the world, the importance of becoming one's own master, and the deep bonds possible between humans and animals. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally appreciate The Call of the Wild as a faithful adaptation that brings a classic story to life for a new generation while maintaining appropriate boundaries for family viewing. Many note that the adventure elements and stunning wilderness settings captivate children's attention while delivering meaningful themes about courage, loyalty, and self-discovery. Some parents caution that younger or more sensitive children may find certain sequences emotionally challenging, particularly those involving Buck's displacement from his home and the harsh realities of frontier life. The PG-13 rating is considered appropriate by most families, who recommend the film for children mature enough to handle adventure stories with emotional depth and occasional intensity.
Official The Call of the Wild Trailer
Why Kids Love The Call of the Wild
Buck races through the snowy Yukon as part of a mail delivery dog sled team, pulling sleds at breakneck speeds across frozen rivers and treacherous mountain passes. The sled sequences deliver heart-pounding action as Buck and his canine teammates navigate dangerous terrain, dodging obstacles and working together to deliver the mail on time. Kids love watching Buck transform from rookie to team leader, proving himself through sheer determination and speed.
The exotic wilds of the Yukon provide endless opportunities for adventure as Buck explores uncharted territory alongside his human companion John Thornton. From his comfortable California home to the rugged Gold Rush frontier, Buck encounters new animal friends and faces off against nature's challenges. The dramatic shift from domestic life to wilderness survival keeps the excitement level high throughout Buck's journey.
Buck's loyalty shines through every chase and rescue, whether he's standing up for his sled team or saving the day in critical moments. The big-hearted dog uses his strength and courage to protect those who need him most, becoming the hero of his own epic quest. Kids cheer as Buck discovers his true place in the world, leading his team through one thrilling adventure after another in the frozen wilderness.