Good Morning Lovelies,

Growing up, there was always a big red dog showing up in our house. Clifford was his name and his owner was called Lucy. Yet, we all claimed we owned him a little bit. 2021 saw him be brought back to life, as Jack Whitehall and John Cleese joined forces to bring us an updated version of the brilliant BBC children’s classic. 

Out now on DVD, Blu-Ray and digitally, the film follows Emily, a lonely little girl, who ends up staying with her clumsy uncle whilst her mum goes away. When offered a puppy by a magical Cleese, she finds herself faced with the unexpected, with him growing into a giant red dog. Causing mayhem where ever he goes. 

Young and old will enjoy this cheesy feature, with Whitehall providing entertainment and an interesting American accent throughout. Seeing Clifford back on the big screen will bring a sense of nostalgia to parents or older viewers who watched him the first time around, whilst new fans will find themselves falling in love for the first time. 

With bullies making Emily’s life hell, it is sweet to see how much an animal can make an impact on a persons life. Something many will be familiar with. Of course, there is the element of action as well, facing off evil figures who threaten their relationship, but nothing will bring this feature down in the eyes of young viewers. In some ways, it is as if the creators have tried to achieve a Stuart Little or Scooby-Doo kind of feature, though it isn’t quite as good as they are. 

Oddly though, the film works. With so much being available to judge, the feature flows well. In a time when we are seeking comfort and familiarity, this film brings it. Even if viewers have never seen an episode of Clifford before. There is a sense of the 90s/early 00s that gives off positive watching throughout. And we all want that. 

Clifford has been missed from the big screen for a long time now and thankfully he is back. Bigger and bolder than ever. Perfect to snuggle up to on a cold day, this will bring a smile to even the coldest of hearts. 

4 Stars

Joey X