Shiloh MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +2 Content: +3

Summertime in rural West Virginia means a chance to earn money for a new bike for Marty (Blake Heron), until he rescues a beagle pup from the creek and the dog follows him home. Because his grandmother is ill, money is tight in his house and his dad (Michael Moriarity) doesn't want any other expenses. However, Marty finds out that the beagle belongs to a man named Judd (Scott Wilson), who has been known to kick and mistreat his hunting dogs and even shoot those that don't obey. Marty becomes determined to acquire the dog, which he names Shiloh, but it's not an easy task. The dog runs away again, and Marty hides Shiloh even though it means lying to his parents. When his deception is discovered, Marty makes a pact with Judd, offering to work in exchange for the dog. When the work is done, Judd breaks the agreement, but eventually Marty finds a way to save Shiloh. This adaptation of a Newberry Award-winning book about a boy's loyalty to a dog moves slowly at times, but offers a heart-warming story. Children and parents alike will enjoy this refreshing family entertainment.

Set in a rural town, the film is surprisingly free of offensive elements. Only one mild crude term is used by Doc (Rod Steiger) as he describes the struggle to keep his granddaughter when her parents are killed in an accident. In the same scene, he says that love gives you strength to fight for what you love. Marty also shows respect for his parents and, in turn, they respect his comments and desires. Telling the truth is also important to Marty and his family. In fact, being true to your word plays an important role in the turning point of the movie. Although Judd is frequently shown drinking beer, it is not commended or condoned. Violence is limited, but includes some shoving and a shotgun is fired at Shiloh. More sensitive children may get upset at a dog fight that injures Shiloh, but it is shown only briefly and is mostly implied by sound. With its many good character qualities and lessons, SHILOH is one of the more commendable family films this year

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Legacy Releasing, Inc., 1800 N. Highland Ave., Suite 311, Hollywood, CA 90028