Watch The 12 Dogs of Christmas

The 12 Dogs of Christmas is a heartwarming family movie that follows the adventures of a young girl named Emma (Jordan-Claire Green). Set in the 1930s, the film takes place in the small town of Doverville, where Emma is sent to live with her Uncle George (Tom Kemp) after her parents are forced to move away for work. Emma is a bright and bubbly girl who loves dogs, but when she arrives in Doverville, she is shocked to discover that the town has a strict no-dogs policy.

Determined to change the town's attitude towards dogs, Emma starts a campaign to convince the locals that dogs are not a nuisance but loyal companions. She gets the support of a kind-hearted librarian, Ms. Salty (Susan Wood), and a group of children who share her love for dogs. Together, they create a Christmas pageant featuring twelve dogs, each with its unique talents, that will charm the town and convince them that dogs are wonderful creatures.

The movie is filled with delightful doggy antics, from a mischievous poodle who loves to steal clothing to a talented Border Collie who can play basketball. Each dog has its personality, and the film highlights the unique bond between dogs and humans. Emma befriends a stray dog named Cinnamon, whom she takes under her wing and trains to be part of the Christmas pageant. The relationship between Emma and Cinnamon is charming and heartwarming, and it's impossible not to fall in love with the adorable pooch.

The 12 Dogs of Christmas is set during the Great Depression, and the film touches on the economic hardship that many families faced during that time. Emma's Uncle George is a cold and stern man who has little patience for her dog-loving ways. However, as Emma's campaign gains momentum, George begins to thaw and see the importance of dogs in people's lives. It's a subtle subplot that adds depth to the film without taking away from its fun and festive vibe.

The movie features an excellent cast, including Jordan-Claire Green, who delivers a natural and authentic performance as Emma. Susan Wood is delightful as the quirky and kind Ms. Salty, and Tom Kemp's portrayal of Uncle George is both tough and tender. The child actors who play the supporting roles all do an excellent job, bringing sincerity and enthusiasm to their performances.

The movie's production values are also impressive, with the filmmakers capturing the spirit of the 1930s with their costumes, sets, and soundtrack. The Christmas pageant is a highlight of the movie, with the twelve dogs stealing the show with their impressive performances. The film's climax is heartwarming and satisfying, leaving viewers with a warm and fuzzy feeling that lingers long after the movie ends.

In conclusion, The 12 Dogs of Christmas is a charming and entertaining movie that will appeal to dog lovers of all ages. It's a feel-good movie that celebrates the bond between humans and dogs and highlights the importance of kindness and compassion. The film is a reminder that even in challenging times, there is always hope and joy to be found.

The 12 Dogs of Christmas is a 2005 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.