The time: the 1940's, during World War II. Nine-year-old Willie Morris, played by Malcolm In the Middle's Frankie Muniz, is not exactly the tough neighborhood kid. When his only friend, his next-door neighbor and town high school jock named Dink, goes off to war, Willie's left alone-until his parents get him a dog. He and his dog Skip forge a strong and lasting bond, the kind the words "a boy and his dog" have always meant in the deepest sense.

Based on a true story, the tale follows Willie Morris' own childhood memories, poignantly illustrating the struggles of growing up. If you don't own a dog, you'll wish you had one, especially if you have an only child. If you do own a dog, you'll snuggle up with him after the movie is over.

Muniz does a great job of making us laugh and get teary-eyed. Diane Lane is perfect as his mom, and Kevin Bacon is excellent as Willie's stern but loving father. Luke Wilson charms everyone as Willie's changed-by-war neighbor, Dink. Funny and heartwarming, you can enjoy this one with the whole family-again and again.