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Joanne's Movie Reviews
"My Dog Skip"
hosted by Joanne Spataro
Charlotte Observer Movie Critic
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joanneblue.jpg (7010 bytes)Two Paws Up for "My Dog Skip"

"My Dog Skip" is an insightful movie about a boy who learns about life from his beloved canine. It's based on the autobiography of William Morris. Frankie Muniz portrays young Willie. He lives in the small town Yazoo, Mississippi during WWII. He's an only child, who's constantly tormented by bullies.

skipandmuniz.gif (8539 bytes)Willie idolizes star baseball player Dink Jenkins (Luke Wilson), his next-door-neighbor. Dink is his friend. But soon his draft number comes up and he must go to war. Willie looses both his idol and only friend.

skip.jpg (2958 bytes)Willie's loving mother (Diane Lane) realizes how lonely her son is. So on his ninth birthday, she surprises him with a puppy. But his dad (Kevin Bacon) is totally against keeping the canine companion. He's been bitter ever since he lost his leg, and part of his soul, in the Spanish Civil War. He wants to shelter Willie from the possible hurts of owning a puppy.

But after these complications resolve, Skip (a Jack Russell Terrier named Enzo) and Willie become best friends. Skip changes his human companion's life for the better, and together they learn about friendship, love and death.

Frankie Muntiz shines with his effective, mellow acting style in "My Dog Skip." The young actor is newly famed for his comical lead on television's "Malcolm in the Middle." He's funny and zany on "Malcolm," contrasted with his more sensitive role as Willie.

Enzo the dog is lively and adorable. His dad, Moose, plays the lovable pooch Eddie on the popular sitcom "Frasier."

The setting, Yazoo, is brilliantly alive with the 1940's. It's richly flavored with prominent print ads for Coca-Cola, WWII interwoven into everyday conversation, and everyday clothes of the time. The music, by William Ross, is reflective of times gone by. It swells and falls as the movie leisurely begins and ends.

"My Dog Skip" will appeal to families of all ages. Younger children will adore Skip. Parents and older kids will enjoy the gentle and dramatic story. I suggest bringing some tissues to dab your eyes at the sadder scenes. It's PG for violence and mild profanity.

102dlogo.jpg (10011 bytes)Joanne's Movie Reviews:
"102 Dalmatians"
hosted by Joanne Spataro
Charlotte Observer Movie Critic

"102 Dalmatians" is a double dose of family fun! A sequel to "101 Dalmatians," this new Disney flick will have parents and children howling with laughter. Glenn Close returns as the deliciously evil Cruella De Vil. "102" starts where the last movie left off. This is the perfect movie for the whole family. It has enough excitement and humor for adults and children to enjoy alike. See more about this film along with pictures and other fun ideas for the kids.

Meet the Author
Deb Wood
author of "Help for Your Shy Dog"
hosted by Evamarie Spataro
gonext.gif (388 bytes)see the interview, FREE excerpt, breed profile & coloring page
papillionnervous.jpg (4247 bytes)She spent two years researching scientific information about shyness, speaking with trainers and behaviorists, and talking with people who own shy dogs. She has created a practical "how to" guide to give owners of shy dogs the tools to help their dogs blossom. Get the tips on how to pick a dog and even deal with the "shy dog." Also see the breed profile for the author's dog, the Papillon with a fun coloring sheet too!!

The Official Movie Site
Film.com: Clip
Film.com: Trailer

My dog Skip
the soundtrack

William Ross

Listen to the clips
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My Dog Skip
The Book
by Willie Morris

In 1943 in a sleepy town on the banks of the Yazoo River, a boy fell in love with a puppy with a lively gait and an intelligent way of listening. The two grew up together having the most wonderful adventures. A classic story of a boy, a dog, and small-town America, My Dog Skip belongs on the same shelf as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Russell Baker's Growing Up. It will enchant readers of all ages for years to come.

Video Movie Review:
"A Christmas Story" (1984)
by Joanne Spataro
Movie Critic, the Charlotte Observer

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Based on the book by Jean Shepard titled ‘In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash’. Coincidentally, the movie’s narrator is the author himself, voicing an adult Ralphie Parker reflecting on a memorable Christmas. The story stars Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley), a 9 year old boy excited about Christmas. It’s such an entertaining movie that can easily be watched hundreds of times. So, if you want to get into the Christmas spirit, rent (or buy) A Christmas Story, which is sure to keep you laughing throughout this holiday season.Find out more about this Christmas classic.

The Latin Explosion
A Close Up Look at the Phenomenon
by Joanne Spataro
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The "Latin Explosion" seemed to happen overnight. It was like a sizzling heat wave of exciting new sounds that swept across America last summer. But Latin music has actually been around for years! Find out more as we explore the music of Santana, Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony and, of course, Ricky Martin.

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Last Updated 04/25/02, ©2000 Joanne Spataro all rights reserved

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