Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

This week we join three friends as they travel through the wilderness looking for a way home. This week, we watch Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993).

Homeward Bound is ceaselessly charming as it follows two dogs – Chance and Shadow – and one cat – Sassy – as they attempt to find their human family after being left temporarily at a friend’s farm. 

The animal’s individual and distinct personalities are what makes this movie so lovely. Shadow is an older Golden Retriever who clearly adores his human and the obvious leader of the pack. Chance is a relatively young American Bulldog who is ready for adventure and finds Shadow more than a bit stifling. And Sassy is an appropriately sassy cat who finds herself deep in the woods with her two canine brothers and holding a deep disdain for dirt. 

These three seem as different as can be. While at the beginning of the movie, this shows itself as a reason they don’t get along, it becomes clear that this is why they are able to survive their long trek back to their family. Shadow is wise and knowledgeable. Chance takes, well, chances. And Sassy is as brave as she is cheeky. These traits are as complementary as they are varied. 

In the end, despite their aptly named incredible journey, this movie is about family and friendship. It’s about finding value in those we have, especially before we lose them. So while you watch this movie, think about how different everyone you love is, and how that makes you all better. And give your dogs or cats a hug, too! 

Runtime: 84 minutes
Rating G
USCCB — G
87% on Rotten Tomatoes
IMDb Parents Guide