‘All Dogs Go to Heaven’: This Underrated Animated Movie Still Touches Hearts After 40 Years

Animated films frequently arouse viewers’ sense of nostalgia by taking them back to their carefree, family-friendly movie-watching upbringing. Even though numerous companies produce well-loved children’s movies, not all of them are successful in bringing back those pleasant memories.

Don Bluth’s 1989 film ‘All Dogs Go to Heaven’ is one example of this; its emotionally charged themes have a long-lasting effect on kids. Many admirers defend the film’s depth and charm despite the fact that it has been criticized and is even rated “Rotten” on Rotten Tomatoes. The story, which is set in 1939 New Orleans, centres on Charlie B. Barkin, a shrewd German Shepherd who is killed by Carface, a gambler. Charlie fights his way back to Earth after dying in order to live as an immortal entity, but he will be threatened with eternal damnation if he is unable to save himself. He meets Anne-Marie, a little child who is under Carface’s influence. This relationship gives the story depth and sets it apart from other movies of the era.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

The relationship between people and animals is thoroughly examined in the movie, especially as it relates to Charlie and Anne-Marie. Because both characters depend on one another, the relationship between the child and the animal is more intricate than in many stories where it is one-sided. Charlie’s protective instincts show his innate kindness despite his initial self-serving objectives.

Tragic events plagued the ‘All Dogs Go to Heaven’ production, including the premature passing of voice actor Judith Barsi. Despite these obstacles and financial difficulties, Bluth’s crew produced a movie that was widely criticized when it came out. 

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Although many contemporary viewers value its emotional depth and storytelling, critics frequently reject it as being too difficult or dark for young audiences. Despite its box office struggles and being overshadowed by Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’, ‘All Dogs Go to Heaven’ has a special position in the history of animated films and has spawned animated series and sequels, demonstrating its enduring appeal despite early reservations.

–Farheen Ali