Benji: Off the Leash! 2004

In the quaint town of Mississippi, an unusual adventure unfolds as the creative minds behind the cherished Benji franchise set out on a mission to discover their next canine sensation. Among the diverse cast of characters is a troubled Hatchett, a freelance dog breeder hiding a dark truth in his tiny, unkempt backyard kennel. Under the watchful eye of his young protégé, Colby, Hatchett’s cruelty is palpable, yet Colby harbors a deep love for a female black dog named Daisy, whom he discreetly cares for in an abandoned house nearby.

This secretive bond flourishes until Hatchett discovers Colby’s tender acts of kindness, leading to accusations of theft of his prized dog and forcing Colby to take the puppies born from Daisy, leaving behind only one scruffy, light-colored “mongrel.” As seasons pass, this abandoned pup, growing into a fluffy bundle of energy, is destined to become the iconic Benji.

Meanwhile, two determined Animal Control officers, Livingston and Sheldon, are relentlessly pursuing Hatchett’s illegal breeding operations and accusations of animal cruelty. Their investigation takes a twist when they come across a dog with an extraordinarily long tongue, nicknamed “Lizard Tongue” for its unusual antics.

One evening, Benji wanders into the cozy home of Zachariah Finch, an elderly man who unwittingly leaves out some meat on the porch. Enchanted by the mysterious visitor, Zachariah begins to feed Benji regularly. As Benji ingratiates himself into Zachariah’s life, he cleverly facilitates a heartfelt introduction between the lonely senior and his new furry friend. Their bond blossoms, leading Zachariah to decide on giving Lizard Tongue a forever home.

As the fluffy dog becomes more attuned to her mother’s distress at the kennel, she takes it upon herself to rescue her ailing mother. With maternal instincts, Benji manages to free her mom from captivity and rushes her to their abandoned hideout, where the mother’s condition worsens, revealing the dire need for help. Benji enlists Lizard Tongue to enact a plan that lures the Animal Control officers to the derelict house. A compassionate veterinarian evaluates the situation, identifying the mother’s grave health issues as a result of over-breeding and neglect.

In a thrilling climax, the shelter director and local sheriff allow life-saving surgery for the mother dog, ensuring her survival. However, Hatchett’s rage ignites upon discovering that his prized black dog has been spayed, leading him to threaten legal action. Yet his attitude shifts when a famous producer arrives, eager to cast the fluffy dog as the new Benji. Hatchett cunningly manipulates Colby into creating a false ownership claim, further complicating the emerging truths surrounding these canine companions.

As the reality gradually unravels at the shelter, the reunited mother and daughter find solace and healing together. Observant agency staff discover signs of abuse on Colby’s mother, leading to a dramatic arrest of Hatchett as he attempts to escape. With a heavy heart, Colby reveals his unconditional love for Benji, acknowledging her need for a better life as the new iconic figure. He makes a heartfelt request for occasional visits, which the producer grants, maintaining his cherished connection with the beloved dog. The film concludes with heartwarming behind-the-scenes moments, paying homage to the real-life shelter dogs that inspired this touching tale.