Lassie

Lassie

Year: 1994

Runtime: 94 mins

Language: English

Director: Daniel Petrie

FamilyAdventure

Best friends are forever. While traveling to a new sheep farm in rural Virginia, the Turner family’s journey is halted by a highway wreck that kills a truck driver. They discover the driver’s abandoned collie, adopt the loyal dog, and name her Lassie. As the city‑born Turners adjust to farm life and contend with a hostile neighboring family, Lassie’s devotion helps them forge bonds and find belonging in their new home.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Lassie (1994)

Trace every key event in Lassie (1994) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Family relocates to Franklin Falls

The Turner family leaves Baltimore, Maryland, seeking a fresh start in Franklin Falls, Virginia. Matt struggles to adjust to his new home, and his father Steve's marriage to Laura after his mother's death adds tension to the household. The move marks the beginning of a challenging chapter for everyone.

Baltimore, Maryland → Franklin Falls, Virginia
2

Lassie joins the Turners

The Turners adopt a stray Collie named Lassie who quickly becomes a source of comfort for Matt. Lassie helps the family settle into their new life and forms a strong bond with the boy. Her presence signals a new emotional anchor for Matt.

Franklin Falls, Virginia
3

Lassie protects Matt from a wolf

One night, a gray wolf menaces Matt in the woods near Franklin Falls. Lassie bravely intervenes, driving the threat away and saving him from harm. The incident solidifies Matt's faith in his new companion.

one night Near Franklin Falls, Virginia
4

Len Collins encourages the dream of a sheep farm

When Steve's job falls through, Len Collins encourages the family to pursue a sheep farm—a dream linked to Matt's late mother. The grandfather's guidance helps shape a plan for a new rural life. The family begins to consider this challenging venture as a path forward.

Franklin Falls, Virginia
5

Sam Garland opposes the Turners

Sam Garland, a wealthy neighbor, opposes their plans and uses his influence to hinder their progress. His two sons, Josh and Jim, attend school with Matt, where jealousy and rivalry simmer. The conflict sets up a broader battle over land and pride.

Grazing land near Franklin Falls
6

The theft and Lassie’s kidnapping

Sam and his henchmen steal the Turners' new herd of sheep and kidnap Lassie. The Turners refuse to back down and vow to reclaim what is theirs. The confrontation escalates into a direct assault on their livelihood.

Grazing land / Turners' farm near Franklin Falls
7

Lassie escapes and helps recover the herd

Lassie escapes captivity with Matt's help, and together they reclaim the stolen sheep. The rescue strengthens their resolve and deepens the bond between boy and dog. The Turners feel renewed hope despite the ongoing conflict with Sam.

Grazing land near Franklin Falls
8

River pursuit: Josh falls into the river

During a confrontation with Sam’s sons, Josh is swept into a raging river, racing toward dangerous rapids and a waterfall. Matt dives into danger to try to save him but collapses from exhaustion. The moment tests Matt's courage and Lassie's loyalty.

Raging river near Franklin Falls
9

Lassie rescues Matt from the river

Shortly after, Lassie lunges into the water to pull Matt to safety and save him from drowning. The heroic act demonstrates Lassie's unwavering loyalty to Matt and marks a turning point in their relationship. The bond between boy and dog deepens as they face the danger together.

Raging river near Franklin Falls
10

Lassie goes over the waterfall

In the final moments of the chase, Lassie attempts to rescue Matt but ends up going over the waterfall herself. Matt watches in horror as his loyal companion seems lost. The family mourns what appears to be Lassie's death.

Waterfall near Franklin Falls
11

Sam apologizes

After learning that Matt saved Josh's life, Sam Garland apologizes to the Turners for his actions and for the loss of Lassie. His gesture signals a rare moment of reconciliation in a long feud. The Turners begin to reassess their relationship with their powerful neighbor.

Franklin Falls, Virginia
12

Memorial for Lassie

The Turners hold a memorial for Lassie at a nearby tree where Matt's mother carved her initials years before. Matt carves Lassie's name above his mother's initials, symbolizing healing and memory. The ceremony marks a quiet, emotional turning point for the family.

Near the Turners' home, by the tree with Matt's mother's initials
13

Lassie returns home after the waterfall

Lassie survives the waterfall, returning home injured but alive shortly after the memorial. She is welcomed back by Matt and their family, who share relief at her return. The near-tragedy strengthens the bond between boy and dog.

Turners' home, Franklin Falls
14

Reunion at Matt’s school

Lassie is finally reunited with Matt at his school, bringing closure to the upheaval of their move. The schoolyard moment underscores the enduring companionship that helped Matt endure the challenges of starting over. The film closes on a hopeful note with Lassie by Matt's side.

Matt's school, Franklin Falls

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 11:16

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Lassie Summary

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Lassie Spoiler-Free Summary

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