Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Benji the Hunted

Benji the Hunted is a family adventure film directed and written by , in which the titular character becomes stranded in the wilderness following a accident and protects a of orphaned cubs from various predators. The film, produced by under Embark Productions in association with Mulberry Square Productions and released by , marks the fourth installment in the series and is the only entry distributed by Disney. The story follows , portrayed by the dog actor Benjean, as he washes ashore in the rugged forests of after a storm separates him from his trainer, played by . There, Benji encounters a hunter () who has killed a mother , leaving her four cubs vulnerable; Benji adopts the cubs, guiding them to safety while evading threats from a and a . Principal photography took place over 90 days in locations including , the Columbia Gorge, and in , as well as in , emphasizing natural wildlife footage with minimal human dialogue. Released on , , in a limited engagement before a wider rollout on June 17, the G-rated runs 89 minutes and grossed approximately $22 million at the U.S. box office. It received a release in 1988 and later became available on . Notable for its focus on animal protagonists and themes of and , Benji the Hunted highlights Camp's signature style of storytelling through perspective, building on the franchise's reputation for heartwarming, family-oriented adventures.

Overview

Plot

Benji, a celebrated canine performer, is swept overboard from a small fishing boat during a violent storm in the off the , leaving him stranded in the remote wilderness of . Exhausted and alone after washing ashore, Benji collapses in the but soon witnesses a hunter fatally shoot a mother . He discovers her four orphaned cubs huddled in a den, vulnerable and mewling, and instinctively assumes the role of their protector, guiding them through the dangers of the wild. As Benji leads the playful yet dependent cubs in search of food and safety, he faces relentless threats that test his resourcefulness and endurance. He steals game birds from the hunter's traps to feed the cubs, even pausing to savor a for himself amid the urgency. Confrontations escalate with an aggressive stalking the group, forcing Benji to lure it into a perilous chase that ends with the wolf plummeting off a cliff; a massive that approaches the cubs, which Benji distracts by barking and running in the opposite direction to lead it away; and a hungry that swoops down to snatch one of the cubs, carrying it off to its death despite Benji's attempts to intervene. Throughout these ordeals, Benji sustains injuries, including cuts and exhaustion, while the cubs' innocent antics—such as tumbling over each other or nuzzling him—highlight the deepening interspecies bond forming between them. The narrative builds to a tense climax as Benji, carrying the remaining three cubs one by one in his jaws up a steep mountainside, locates a distant female with her own single cub and works to reunite the orphans with this potential new mother. Evading the persistent hunter—who is now tracking Benji for a reward—Benji successfully integrates the three cubs into the new family, watching as the mother accepts them with gentle grooming. In the resolution, the hunter, moved by Benji's selfless heroism upon discovering the scene, rescues the injured dog and returns him to , underscoring themes of animal survival, adoptive maternal , and unlikely cross-species . The story unfolds with minimal human dialogue, emphasizing the animals' behaviors and instincts in director Camp's signature animal-focused narrative style.

Cast

The principal role of Benji, the mixed-breed dog protagonist separated from his trainer and tasked with surviving in the wilderness while protecting orphaned cougar cubs, was played by Benjean, a female dog who was the daughter of Higgins, the original Benji from the 1974 film. Benji the Hunted marked Benjean's final film appearance. Frank Inn, the renowned animal trainer who had worked with since the franchise's inception, portrayed himself in an on-screen as the dog's owner and trainer, appearing in scenes depicting the search efforts following the boat accident. played the hunter, the rugged outdoorsman whose pursuit adds tension to Benji's wilderness ordeal. Nancy Francis portrayed the TV reporter Mary Beth McLaulin, who interviews Inn about the missing dog in opening sequences. Minor human roles included uncredited appearances such as the pilot of the search and additional hunters assisting the main hunter. The animal cast was composed of trained performers to depict the film's perilous natural encounters. The orphaned cubs were portrayed by multiple trained kittens, including Malina as one of the cubs, while played the mother . The threatening was enacted by trained wolves, with as the lead. The grizzly bear antagonist was brought to life by the trained Bart, known professionally as . A trained represented the mountain that menaces the cubs from above.

Production

Development

Joe Camp, the creator of the Benji franchise, wrote and directed Benji the Hunted as the fourth film in the series, following the 1974 original, (1977), and the 1983 television movie Benji, Zax and the Alien Prince. The project represented an evolution in Camp's storytelling, drawing from his longstanding inspiration rooted in Walt Disney's animated classics like , which emphasized animal perspectives and emotional depth in live-action family films. For this installment, Camp shifted the narrative from urban environments to a remote setting, focusing on themes of survival and animal heroism to showcase Benji's resourcefulness without relying on human dialogue. The film was produced by Mulberry Square Productions, the independent company Camp co-founded in 1971, in association with Embark Productions, with serving as producer. Conceived in the mid-1980s after a four-year hiatus from the , development progressed to beginning in June 1986. Contemporary reports highlighted Camp's intent to advance the series' visual techniques, creating a nearly wordless adventure that highlighted the dog's innate heroism amid natural perils. Securing distribution marked a significant milestone, with acquiring rights for theatrical release—the studio's sole involvement in the series. This partnership was notable given Camp's history of independence; after self-distributing the original Benji through Mulberry Square Releasing due to rejections from major studios, he had maintained creative control over subsequent entries, making the Disney deal a rare collaboration that required navigating tensions between his autonomous approach and studio expectations.

Filming

Principal photography for Benji the Hunted commenced on 12 June 1986 in , slightly delayed from its initial 1 June schedule due to logistical preparations, and extended from an planned 72 days to 90 days, concluding in mid-September 1986. The production was filmed entirely on location to capture the wilderness setting, with primary sites in including , the Columbia Gorge, , Siuslaw National Forest, and Willamette National Forest, as well as additional sequences at in . These forested and mountainous areas near and in the provided the rugged terrain essential for the film's survival narrative. Filming faced significant challenges from the remote and harsh environments, including poor weather that necessitated schedule extensions and daily helicopter access to elevated sites like the 3,500-foot mountain used for the two-week finale shoot. Coordinating animal performers—such as a , , rabbits, raccoons, , and frogs—posed additional difficulties due to their conflicting natural instincts during action sequences like chases and encounters, requiring strict protocols to ensure . Animals were transported via to inaccessible locations, highlighting the logistical demands of on-site authenticity. The film was shot on 35mm to emphasize visual storytelling, with approximately 75% of the runtime featuring no human dialogue or characters after the opening 12 minutes, relying on dynamic animal interactions captured through natural lighting and tracking shots. Director took a hands-on approach in directing the animals, often using multiple takes to document genuine behaviors, particularly in scenes involving the cougar cubs. Cinematographer Don Reddy focused on wildlife authenticity by leveraging the Pacific Northwest's ambient light and landscapes, enhancing the film's immersive quality without artificial sets. Animal trainer oversaw the performers, including Benjean as , ensuring seamless integration into the untamed settings.

Music

The original score for Benji the Hunted was composed by siblings and Euel Box, who incorporated orchestral arrangements to underscore the film's wilderness setting. A key musical element is the theme song "Too Many Yesterdays," with music by Betty Box and Euel Box and lyrics by director , performed by country singer ; it appears in the and end titles. This marked another collaboration between the Box siblings and Camp, following their work on the scores and songs for earlier Benji films, including the 1974 original Benji and 1977's For the Love of Benji. No official soundtrack album was released for the film.

Release

Theatrical release

Benji the Hunted was distributed in the United States by , with an initial limited theatrical release on June 5, 1987, in select cities including a in , , before expanding to a on June 19, 1987. The film earned a G rating from the of America (MPAA), designating it suitable for all audiences, including children, due to its family-oriented content free of violence, language, or other objectionable elements. Disney's promotional efforts centered on positioning the film as a wholesome animal adventure appealing to families, with materials such as posters depicting protectively alongside orphaned cubs to evoke themes of bravery and companionship. The campaign extended to cross-promotions, including a with a major company that leveraged the film's to reach pet-owning households. The film's international rollout was limited, targeting select markets in and ; it premiered in the on June 19, 1987, and saw releases in and other territories shortly thereafter, aligning with the franchise's established appeal to young audiences abroad. Prior to its theatrical debut, legal disputes arose over video distribution rights for the series, stemming from a 1985 breach-of-contract lawsuit filed by producer Joe Camp's Mulberry Square Productions against , which complicated negotiations with and delayed some ancillary release strategies, though the matters were resolved in time for the film's launch.

Home media

Following its theatrical release, Benji the Hunted was first made available on through Home Video's VHS release on February 5, 1988. This edition featured the film in its standard with surround sound, targeting family audiences with minimal extras beyond the feature presentation. A version followed on February 15, 1993, also from Home Video, offering extended play in format with audio for collectors of the era's analog home media. The film transitioned to digital optical media with a DVD release from Home Entertainment on January 17, 2006. This edition, part of Disney's broader catalog of family films, included the movie in 1.33:1 full-screen format with 5.1 audio and basic supplemental materials such as theatrical trailers. No official Blu-ray Disc edition has been released as of 2025, though fan communities have discussed unofficial upscaling efforts from existing DVD sources. Digital distribution began expanding in the mid-2010s, with availability for purchase and rental on platforms including (now ) and Video since at least 2014. These versions support high-definition streaming or download in with , emphasizing accessibility for modern viewers. Benji the Hunted was added to Disney+ on November 12, 2019, coinciding with the service's launch, and remains available there as of 2025 without noted removals or special editions beyond standard family-oriented packaging across formats.

Reception

Critical response

Upon its release, Benji the Hunted received mixed reviews from critics, with praise centered on its animal performances and appeal, tempered by criticisms of its narrative contrivances. In a notable exchange on their program, gave the film a "thumbs down," faulting its contrived plot and lack of substance for young audiences, while offered a "thumbs up," commending the impressive of the animal actors. highlighted Benji's endearing interactions with the cougar cubs and the irresistible animal footage as strengths that could captivate children, though it noted the story's convenient resolutions felt overly simplistic. Critics often praised the film's heartwarming depiction of animal loyalty and Benji's charismatic presence, making it engaging for families despite minimal . The Los Angeles Times lauded the exceptional animal photography, particularly Benji's inventive feats in breathtaking wilderness settings, which elevated its appeal for both children and parents. However, some reviewers found the film formulaic in comparison to earlier Benji entries, with pacing slowed by repetitive perils and an intrusive, unoriginal score. Others criticized the unrealistic portrayal of animal behaviors, such as Benji's overly human-like decision-making and interactions that strained credibility, potentially misleading young viewers about . Aggregate scores reflect this divided reception: the film holds a 55% approval rating on , based on 11 reviews, indicating a middling critical consensus. On , it scores 6.2 out of 10 from over 3,600 user ratings as of 2025. Retrospectively, the film has been viewed more favorably for its wholesome themes. A 2025 review from awarded it 4 out of 5 stars, recommending it for ages 6 and older and praising its positive messages about and , while noting some tense animal encounters. The film received no major awards nominations, though it won a Genesis Award from the in 1987 for its portrayal of animals.

Box office

Benji the Hunted opened in limited release on June 5, 1987, earning $21,530 from a single theater. It expanded to wide release on June 19, 1987, grossing $3,062,616 over the weekend from 1,188 theaters and ranking seventh at the North American box office. The film concluded its domestic theatrical run with a total gross of $22,257,624, accounting for nearly all of its worldwide earnings due to minimal international distribution. Released amid the 1987 summer movie season, it competed with major blockbusters including Beverly Hills Cop II and The Untouchables, while attracting a dedicated family audience through its wholesome adventure narrative. Within the Benji franchise, Benji the Hunted outperformed ($17,732,000) but did not match the original Benji ($39,552,000). Distributed by , the film leveraged the studio's established appeal to family viewers during its theatrical rollout. No theatrical re-releases have occurred as of 2025.

Legacy

Animal performers

Benjean, a mixed-breed and daughter of the original Benji performer Higgins, portrayed the in Benji the Hunted. Trained by veteran animal coordinator , Benjean had previously starred as Benji in (1977) and (1980), marking this 1987 film as her final appearance in the role. Inn employed positive reinforcement methods to train Benjean, building on techniques he had successfully used with Higgins to encourage natural behaviors and responsiveness without coercion. This approach allowed Benjean to perform complex wilderness survival sequences convincingly, including interactions with wild animals, while maintaining her safety and well-being during production. The orphaned cubs were enacted by 23 individual cubs sourced from facilities, as their rapid growth necessitated multiple stand-ins to depict the characters consistently over filming. These cubs, along with the mother (played by ) and a cub (Malina), were trained by specialists including Sled Reynolds, who prepared them for on-set interactions through gradual acclimation to handlers and environments. The timber wolf antagonist, Dimitri, was handled by California-based animal trainers Gary Grimm and others, drawing from established wildlife conditioning practices to simulate predatory behaviors safely. The brown bear was portrayed by the renowned Kodiak bear Bart, trained by Doug and Lynne Seus using reward-based methods honed for film work; an eagle appearing in a key scene was coordinated by trainer Mark Wiener. Production adhered to 1980s standards for . Inn and director emphasized ethical handling throughout, aligning with industry efforts to prioritize performer safety in wildlife-themed projects. Following Benji the Hunted, Benjean retired from acting, cementing her legacy as a beloved star in the Benji series known for expressive performances that captivated audiences. Other performers like continued successful careers, appearing in major films such as The Edge (1997) and contributing to documentaries.

Cultural impact

Benji the Hunted marked the conclusion of the original theatrical run of the Benji , serving as the final film to feature Benjean, the second dog to portray the iconic character, in a major motion picture. Following its 1987 release, the series entered a hiatus, with no further entries until the 2004 Benji: Off the Leash! and the unrelated 2018 reboot simply titled Benji. As the sole Benji film distributed by , Benji the Hunted stood out as an anomaly in the franchise's history, integrating the scruffy stray dog into Disney's tradition of live-action family adventures centered on animal protagonists. Released amid Disney's expansion into wildlife-themed stories during the late 1980s, the film contributed to the studio's output of tales emphasizing survival and companionship in natural settings. The movie has endured as a nostalgic for audiences, often recalled in retrospectives as a heartfelt family classic that captivated young viewers with its blend of adventure and emotional depth. Its themes of animal protection and heroism resonate through Benji's role as to orphaned cubs, subtly underscoring the perils of after their mother is killed by a hunter, which has prompted reflections on in popular media. In media coverage, Benji the Hunted gained notoriety for sparking a heated debate on the Siskel & Ebert television program, where critics and clashed over its merits in the same episode reviewing Stanley Kubrick's , highlighting the film's polarizing yet memorable place in 1987 cinema. A 2017 Hollywood Reporter retrospective on June 1987's highlighted it among standout releases, noting its role in a month packed with enduring hits. Director and writer , who created the franchise, died on March 14, 2024, at the age of 84. As of November 2025, Benji the Hunted has not inspired any direct remakes, though it continues to sustain viewership through streaming on Disney+, where it remains available for family audiences.

References

  1. [1]
    Benji the Hunted | Rotten Tomatoes
    Rating 55% (11) When a shipwreck separates the courageous dog Benji from his trainer (Frank Inn), the crafty canine must brave the dangers of an island wilderness alone.
  2. [2]
    AFI|Catalog
    Var stated that Benji the Hunted was set to be the first picture produced in Embark Production Company's venture, with principal photography scheduled to begin ...
  3. [3]
    Benji the Hunted (film) - D23
    Directed by Joe Camp. An Embark Production in association with Mulberry Square Productions. 89 min. Filmed in Oregon and Washington. Released on video in 1988 ...Missing: details | Show results with:details
  4. [4]
    Benji the Hunted Movie Review | Common Sense Media
    Rating 4.0 · Review by Charles Cassady Jr.Sep 30, 2025 · This is a simple, tearjerkingly manipulative and yet shamelessly entertaining cross-species adventure.
  5. [5]
    FILM: BENJI - The New York Times
    Jun 17, 1987 · All this activity is set in the wilds of Washington and Oregon, where Benji is lost after a fishing accident. The film begins with a newscaster ...Missing: plot | Show results with:plot
  6. [6]
    Walking Through Nearly a Century of Locally Filmed Pet Projects ...
    Jan 30, 2019 · Benji the Hunted (1987). Top dog: Benjean, daughter of the original "Benji" Higgins, filled the titular role. ... Nancy Francis as a reporter ...
  7. [7]
    Full cast & crew - Benji the Hunted (1987) - IMDb
    animal supplier: wild animals. Steve Martin · Steve Martin. animal trainer: wild animals. Gayle Phelps · Gayle Phelps. trainer: wild animals. Bryan Renfro.
  8. [8]
    Benji the Hunted (1987) - The Great Disney Movie Ride
    Jan 27, 2025 · Beloved canine actor Benji has been lost at sea following a tragic boating accident on a shoot. That explains why none of the Benji stories have ...
  9. [9]
    Benji the Hunted (1987) - Turner Classic Movies - TCM
    1987. Production Company. Steve Martin's Working Wildlife; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. Distribution Company. Walt Disney Studios Distribution; Walt ...
  10. [10]
    Benji the Hunted | Cast and Crew - Rotten Tomatoes
    Discover the cast and crew of Benji the Hunted on Rotten Tomatoes. See actors, directors, and more behind the scenes. Explore now!
  11. [11]
    Joe Camp, Filmmaker Behind 'Benji' Franchise, Dies at 84
    Mar 16, 2024 · Mr. Camp, inspired by Walt Disney's vision, insisted on creative control over his films and also insisted that they contain no profanity of any ...
  12. [12]
    Benji is back, in a tale relying on film techniques - CSMonitor.com
    Jun 17, 1987 · Joe Camp got his inspiration for the ``Benji'' movies, he once told me, from Walt Disney cartoons in the classic ``Lady and the Tramp.Missing: development | Show results with:development
  13. [13]
    Benji the Hunted (1987) - Box Office Mojo
    Ben Vaughn, Producer. Betty E. Box, Composer. Euel Box, Composer. Don Reddy, Cinematographer. Karen Thorndike, Editor. Cast, Role. Red Steagall. Hunter. See ...
  14. [14]
    Benji the Hunted (1987) - Filming & production - IMDb
    Filming dates. Jun 2, 1986 - Sep 1986. Production dates. It looks like we don't have any production dates for this title yet. Be the first to contribute ...Missing: development timeline
  15. [15]
    Benji the Dog Has His Day, Free From Hollywood's Leash
    Mar 29, 2004 · Camp has been making movies at arms' length from Hollywood. He has danced with the studios -- Disney distributed the third Benji movie, ''Benji ...
  16. [16]
    Joe Camp, Creator and Director of 'Benji' Films, Dies at 84 - Variety
    Mar 15, 2024 · After having no luck acquiring distribution, Camp formed his own distribution company Mulberry Square Releasing in 1974 to distribute the film ...Missing: production | Show results with:production
  17. [17]
    Benji the Hunted | Disney Wiki - Fandom
    Benji the Hunted is a 1987 children's film about a dog trying to survive in the wilderness. It was released by Walt Disney Pictures.Plot · Cast
  18. [18]
    Soundtracks - Benji the Hunted (1987) - IMDb
    Music by Betty Box and Euel Box. Lyrics by Joe Camp. Performed by Guy Hovis · Contribute to this page. Suggest an edit or add missing content.Missing: composer | Show results with:composer
  19. [19]
    The world's most comprehensive Film database - AFI|Catalog
    Benji represents director-producer-writer Joe Camp's first feature film. As noted in a 30 Jan 1975 DV article, Camp's previous career in advertising lead to the ...
  20. [20]
    Benji the Hunted (1987) - Box Office and Financial Information
    Movie Details ; Source: Original Screenplay ; Genre: Adventure ; Production Method: Live Action ; Creative Type: Contemporary Fiction ; Production Countries: United ...Missing: film | Show results with:film
  21. [21]
    BENJI THE HUNTED, US poster, 1987, @ Buena - Maryevans.com
    BENJI THE HUNTED, US poster, 1987, @ Buena Vista/courtesy Everett Collection. © Mary Evans Picture Library 2015. The Everett Collection. Picture No 11647795.Missing: Disney tie-
  22. [22]
    Benji the Hunted (1987) - Release info - IMDb
    Benji the Hunted was released in the US on June 4, 1987 (Dallas, Texas) and June 5, 1987 (limited), in the UK on June 19, 1987, and in New Zealand on September ...Missing: wide | Show results with:wide
  23. [23]
    Benji the Hunted - Wikipedia
    Benji the Hunted is a 1987 American adventure drama film directed and written by Joe Camp and produced by Ben Vaughn. It is the fourth film in the Benji series.
  24. [24]
    List of Walt Disney and Buena Vista video releases
    Oct 29, 2024 · 594: Benji the Hunted (February 5, 1988) ???: DuckTales: High Flying ... VHS release date, Blu-ray release date, Moratorium, THX-Certified, Disney's Fast ...
  25. [25]
    “Benji The Hunted” VHS (594) Walt Disney Home Video A-7 - eBay
    In stock $3.82 delivery“Benji The Hunted” VHS (594) Walt Disney Home Video A-7. Comedy Pants Retro Video (985).Missing: streaming | Show results with:streaming
  26. [26]
    Benji the Hunted [594 AS] on LD LaserDisc
    60-day returnsBenji the Hunted (1987) [594 AS]. Country, USA. Released, 15/02/1993. Publisher, Walt Disney Home Video. Price, 29.99 USD ...
  27. [27]
    Benji the Hunted - DVD - Amazon.com
    Benji the Hunted ; Payment. Secure transaction ; Description. Shipwrecked wonder dog Benji outsmarts a wolf and a grizzly to find orphan cougars a home. ; Genre, ‎ ...
  28. [28]
    Benji the Hunted DVD - Blu-ray.com
    Benji the Hunted. (1987) Benji is left in the wilderness after an accident - can he survive ? Director: Joe Camp Writer: Joe Camp
  29. [29]
    Benji the Hunted Blu-ray
    730-day returnsBenji the Hunted. (1987) Benji is left in the wilderness after an accident - can he survive ? Director: Joe Camp Writer: Joe Camp<|control11|><|separator|>
  30. [30]
    [XML] https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/benji-the-hunted/id297426009
    ... itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewMovie?id=297426009&amp;cc=us&amp;urlDesc=/benji-the-hunted</string> <key>mtTopic</key><string>xp_its_main ...Missing: digital Amazon
  31. [31]
    Watch Benji The Hunted | Prime Video - Amazon.com
    $$17.99 Rating 4.7 (441) · 30-day returnsRentals include 30 days to start watching this video and 48 hours to finish once started.
  32. [32]
    Watch Benji the Hunted | Disney+
    After a tragic sea accident, Benji is washed ashore in the rugged backwoods of North America, where he becomes the guardian to an orphaned litter of cougar cubs ...
  33. [33]
    Benji the Hunted | Reviews - Rotten Tomatoes
    Benji shines in another simple but engrossing dog tale. Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | ...
  34. [34]
    MOVIE REVIEW : BENJI STANDS TALLER THAN EVER IN 'HUNTED'
    Jun 17, 1987 · The animal photography is what gives “Benji the Hunted” its greatest appeal for both children and their parents, but the film makers' notion of ...Missing: formulaic pacing
  35. [35]
    Benji the Hunted (1987) - IMDb
    Rating 6.2/10 (3,609) Benji the Hunted: Directed by Joe Camp. With Benjean, Frank Inn, Red Steagall, Nancy Francis. Benji is left in the wilderness after an accident.
  36. [36]
    Awards - Benji the Hunted (1987) - IMDb
    Young Artist Awards (1). 1 win & 1 nomination. Genesis Awards. Gideon, Dimitri, Benjean, and Malina in Benji the Hunted (1987). 1987 Winner Genesis Award.
  37. [37]
    Benji the Hunted - Box Office Mojo
    Grosses ... BoxOfficeMojo.com by IMDbPro - an IMDb company. © IMDb.com, Inc. or its affiliates. All rights reserved. Box Office Mojo and IMDb are trademarks or ...Missing: gross | Show results with:gross
  38. [38]
  39. [39]
    Domestic Box Office For 1987
    Benji the Hunted, -, -, -, $20,080,256, 1,188, $22,257,624, Jun 5, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, false. 56, The Principal, -, -, -, $19,734,940, 1,196 ...
  40. [40]
    Franchise: Benji - Box Office Mojo
    Release Date, Distributor, Estimated. Rank, Release, Lifetime Gross · Max Theaters ... Benji the Hunted, $22,257,624, 1,188, $21,530, 1, Jun 5, 1987 · Walt Disney ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  41. [41]
    Benjean - IMDb
    Benjean. Actress: Oh Heavenly Dog. Benjean is known for Oh Heavenly Dog (1980), Benji the Hunted (1987) and For the Love of Benji (1977).
  42. [42]
    The Trainer Who Created Four-Legged Stars - NPR
    Jun 28, 2012 · Frank Inn, a pioneering animal trainer who made stars out of animals. He could get animals to do things that most people didn't believe.Missing: performers Benjean
  43. [43]
    Frank Inn, 86; Trained Benji the Dog - Los Angeles Times
    Jul 29, 2002 · Frank Inn, the trainer of some of Hollywood's best-known animal performers, including Benji the dog, has died. He was 86.Missing: Hunted | Show results with:Hunted
  44. [44]
    Bart the Bear - Grizzly bear conservation and protection - Vital Ground
    An Alaskan brown bear who lived with trainers Doug and Lynne Seus, Bart was a conservationist, a friend to many, and of course, the center of attention anytime ...
  45. [45]
    Fact Checking Ourselves: Benji the Hunted - Sequel Rights
    Did Siskel and Ebert get into a big fight over Benji the Hunted? TRUE - Yes! This is consistently mentioned as only of their top spats in the ...Missing: budget cost