Clifford's Really Big Movie (2004) Plot Summary & Timeline

As Emily-Elizabeth Howard (/actor/emily-elizabeth-howard) calls for Clifford, her adorable giant dog leaps into action, eager to join her for the thrilling carnival celebrations. Accompanied by Charley, Jetta, and his canine friends Cleo (/actor/cree-summer) and T-Bone (/actor/kel-mitchell), Clifford arrives at the vibrant gathering, allured by the spectacle of “Larry’s Amazing Animals.” This captivating troupe showcases a variety of quirky performers including Shackelford the High-Flying Ferret, the intrepid Dorothy the Daring Cow (aka Heifer), Dirk the Extreme Dachshund, and Rodrigo, the Chihuahua of Steel. However, despite their spirited efforts, the show struggles to leave a mark, with each act failing to wow the audience. The show’s charming host, Larry Gablegobble, blissfully oblivious to the lackluster performances, continues to praise the group’s enthusiasm.

Post-performance, Larry confides in P.T., the carnival’s owner, sharing concerns over the show’s dwindling audience and the urgent need to enhance their allure. He proposes that the Amazing Animals take part in an impending Tummy Yummies Animal Talent Contest, offering them a chance at fame, wealth, and a lifetime supply of delectable treats if they succeed. Meanwhile, Clifford and his companions—Cleo and T-Bone—visit the team to gather autographs, only to be persuaded by Shackelford to join the act, who believes that Clifford’s immense size and striking presence could flip their fortunes. Initially reluctant, the trio declines Larry’s offer, as they are committed to their loyal owners.

The following day, Clifford overhears his human parents discussing financial troubles with Mr. Bleakman. Misinterpreting their conversation as a complaint about his costly eating habits, he resolves to help out by joining the Amazing Animals in hopes of earning food to alleviate expenses. Cleo and T-Bone decide to follow him, promising Emily-Elizabeth (/actor/emily-elizabeth-howard) that they will return during her slumber. After navigating a scenic route while dodging towns that fear Clifford’s massive size, the trio finally catches up with Larry’s troupe. As Larry refuses to accept animals with owners, Cleo cleverly manages to dispose of their identification tags, claiming they are merely dog-catcher decoys for safe keeping in a crate.

Larry welcomes the newcomers, and during their subsequent show, Clifford shines with his incredible stunts, earning resounding applause. As the highlight of the show, he significantly enhances the performances of the other animals, helping Dorothy overcome her fear of heights. However, his swift ascent to stardom incites jealousy in Shackelford, who feels threatened by Clifford usurping his spotlight. P.T. beams with pride at Larry’s newfound success.

Meanwhile, Emily-Elizabeth, Mrs. Diller, and Sheriff Lewis are on a mission, searching for their lost furry friends, oblivious to the exhilarating escapades taking place in the world of show business. As Larry’s Amazing Animals flourish, they receive a prestigious invitation to the Tummy Yummies contest. Yet, beneath the surface of their recent triumph, Shackelford’s jealousy towards Clifford begins to simmer, his frustration boiling over into hurtful sentiments that suggest the troupe would be better without Clifford’s fame. Disheartened by Shackelford’s critical comments and longing for Emily-Elizabeth, Clifford considers leaving to return to Birdwell Island, sowing seeds of doubt about his future with the group.

With determination, Cleo and T-Bone persuade Clifford to stay and help them rescue Larry and the others from a stranded bus. Their united spirit brings them to the contest just in time, but calamity ensues when CEO George C. Wolfsbottom tricks Larry into signing a contract that gives him full custody of Clifford, effectively snatching him away for his spoiled daughter, Madison’s enjoyment.

As tensions rise, Shackelford endeavors to downplay Clifford’s motivations, but Cleo confronts him, revealing his true intentions. After some soul-searching, Shackelford acknowledges his errors and apologizes to Clifford, while Larry seizes the moment to contact Emily-Elizabeth, prompting her swift action.

With the fate of the animals hanging in the balance, Larry drives them to Mr. Wolfsbottom’s lavish mansion, where they devise a plan to break Clifford free. Shackelford bravely takes the lead to rescue Clifford, but T-Bone’s overly enthusiastic attempt sets off the alarm, prompting an alarmed pursuit by Mr. Wolfsbottom’s security.

In the midst of the chaos, Emily-Elizabeth rushes in just in time to reclaim Clifford, thwarting Mr. Wolfsbottom’s attempts to reassert control. After a tense stand-off, Mr. Wolfsbottom ultimately concedes, releasing Clifford and gifting him a lifetime supply of Tummy Yummies, thereby resolving the Howard family’s previous financial concerns.

As normalcy returns, Clifford reconciles with Shackelford, and Emily-Elizabeth, Cleo, and T-Bone bid farewell to Larry’s Amazing Animals. The quartet rejoices as they make their way back to Birdwell Island, their friendship stronger than ever.