The Call of the Wild (2020)

Review Team

4/5

The Call of the Wild, directed by Chris Sanders, is a visually stunning adaptation of Jack London’s classic novel. The film centres on Buck, a large and lovable St. Bernard-Scotch Collie mix, who faces the harsh realities of life in the Yukon during the Gold Rush. Harrison Ford delivers a heartfelt ... Show more >> The Call of the Wild, directed by Chris Sanders, is a visually stunning adaptation of Jack London’s classic novel. The film centres on Buck, a large and lovable St. Bernard-Scotch Collie mix, who faces the harsh realities of life in the Yukon during the Gold Rush. Harrison Ford delivers a heartfelt performance as John Thornton, a man who forms a deep bond with Buck amidst the wild. The film explores themes of friendship, survival, and self-discovery, beautifully captured through breathtaking cinematography. While the CGI used to bring Buck to life may not resonate with everyone, it effectively conveys the emotional depth of the character. The pacing is steady, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in Buck’s transformative journey. Overall, The Call of the Wild is an adventure that appeals to both families and those seeking a touching story about the bond between humans and dogs. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

The Call of the Wild presents a familiar tale of a dog’s journey from luxury to the wild, but it struggles to fully capture the raw intensity of Jack London’s original story. While the film is visually impressive, with some magnificent landscapes that draw you in, the reliance on CGI for Buck someti ... Show more >> The Call of the Wild presents a familiar tale of a dog’s journey from luxury to the wild, but it struggles to fully capture the raw intensity of Jack London’s original story. While the film is visually impressive, with some magnificent landscapes that draw you in, the reliance on CGI for Buck sometimes detracts from the authenticity of his character. Harrison Ford brings a warmth to his role as John Thornton, yet the narrative feels somewhat predictable and lacks the emotional punch one might expect. The film does have its charming moments, especially in depicting the bond between Buck and Thornton, but it often feels like it skims the surface of deeper themes. For viewers looking for a family-friendly adventure, it delivers just enough, but those familiar with the source material may find it lacking in depth. Overall, it’s an enjoyable watch but doesn’t quite live up to the expectations set by its literary roots. Show less