The Dog Who Stopped the War

During the winter break a large group of kids decide to break into two groups and play "war." One group stakes the kids barn/hideout as their base and the other group builds an amazing ice brick fortress complete with slides, a faux front door, and a snowball armory. The kids set up rules, spy on each other, get frustrated because they can't talk to kids on the other team. There is a conscientious objector, a kind of goofy nature-lovin' kid who tries to stop the war several times. I remember seeing this when I was pretty young and it made a lasting impression. I have only seen a dubbed into English copy (which makes some of the taunts the kids say pretty funny.)

***1/2 Out of ***** While I am not concerned with the fact that this is an English dubbed version as some reviewers have mentioned, it should be noted, as it seems to reside in many Quebecois native hearts. However, this was a movie as a child that I was a fervent admirer of; keeping in mind now that it was made for children, I rate it on a relative basis. The story is of children on winter break building an awesome snow fort, and jostling back-'n-forth for control with weapons such as snowballs and other concoctions, as idle hands and free time equal winter break lessons. If I had children, this definitely is a film I would try and get them interested in, as the snow fort wowed me when I was young, and I think even children today would agree, albeit with Pixar and all the computer animation, maybe I am out of date and just don't realize it. In addition, the movie's message is wonderfully allegorical and a positive one at that, for children (and adults alike).

I watched this movie when I was about 8 years old. I taped it and watched it over and over. I loved it so much I even borrowed the novel from the library and red it twice. As a child I didn't read a lot of books for fun so this was a first. I have not seen this movie for 15 years. I recently saw it on TV. It wasn't till now that I realized that it was dubbed. I always thought that it was originally in English.

This movie is on my list of favourite movies. It's not a spectacular, oscar winning movie but it just brings back memories of how much I use to love it. The ending always left me crying. The values it teaches still rings true today. War does nothing even if it is with snowballs.

What can i say about this movie? I have seen it quite a few times since the first time when i was around 6. I have seen the english version and it is done very well. It is a great movie for all ages, but it is directed more for children. I love the childlike humor and appreciate it. If you have not seen it, you should try to rent a copy, you will not be disappointed!

OK,so I'm a 58 year old kid.this is my favourite movie of all time.i watch it every day and never tire of it.the kids are so natural.i managed to buy 10 copies at a video rental garage sale.gave a copy to my grandchildren.they also love it.it is obvious the author grew up in this type of environment.many older adults could relate to this type of childhood fun.i have gone through 3 of my copies.after all 20 years of watching the same movie every day ,has to damage the tape.i wish there were more movies like this.its beautiful,funny,sad,happy all in one neat little package.how many of us have built snow forts,played war games,fallen in love with the enemy,had to bury a much loved pet.many of us.it is my childhood relived.