Harrison Ford, widely recognized for iconic roles like Han Solo and Indiana Jones, has a filmography that extends well beyond these beloved franchises. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated his versatility by taking on diverse roles in action films such as Air Force One, dramas like Witness, and romantic comedies including Working Girl. Although many of his films have gained significant fame, there are still lesser-known titles that deserve attention. Today’s streaming landscape offers these underrated gems an opportunity to reach a broader audience, as evidenced by the success of the 2020 adaptation of The Call of the Wild.
Currently, The Call of the Wild ranks eighth among Netflix’s top 10 movies worldwide. In the week of December 1-7, it garnered 3.8 million views and was watched for a total of 6.4 million hours, marking its first appearance in the platform’s top 10. This resurgence is a hopeful sign for the film, which did not perform as well at the box office as expected. Despite its initial release in late February 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic began, The Call of the Wild only opened to $24.7 million domestically and finished with a total of $62.3 million in the U.S. and $111.1 million globally, significantly lower than its production budget of $125-150 million.
Based on Jack London’s classic novel, the film follows Buck, a Saint Bernard/Scotch Shepherd mix, who forges a deep bond with John Thornton, portrayed by Ford. Directed by Chris Sanders, known mainly for his animated work on films like Lilo & Stitch and How to Train Your Dragon, this project marked his live-action directorial debut. Critics praised Sanders for effectively conveying the emotional weight of the material, particularly through the connection between Buck and Thornton.
The film shines in its portrayal of the dynamic between Buck and Thornton. Ford’s performance as the rugged yet tender-hearted Thornton fits perfectly with the story’s themes. While the CGI that brings Buck to life may initially be jarring to some viewers, the digital dog becomes an endearing character over the course of the film. As audiences settle in, they can invest emotionally in Buck’s journey and embrace his charming personality.
Although The Call of the Wild isn’t specifically a holiday movie, its heartwarming story and winter setting make it a suitable film to enjoy during the festive season. It is gratifying to see it finally receive the recognition it deserves after its underwhelming theatrical performance. Sanders may not have created his most celebrated film with this adaptation, but it reflects his ability to tackle different genres and storytelling styles. Fans and new viewers alike are encouraged to add this touching film to their watchlists, particularly as it gains traction on streaming platforms.