The Shaggy Dog

The Shaggy Dog

Year: 1959

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

FantasyComedyFamily

As a young boy discovers, a mystical curse transforms him into a shaggy dog, forcing him to navigate the absurdities of canine life amidst human expectations. To break the spell, he must muster the courage to confront unexpected challenges and prove his bravery in the most unlikely of situations.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Shaggy Dog (1959)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Shaggy Dog (1959). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie unfolds in a contemporary setting, reflecting suburban life intertwined with political aspirations and crime. This era captures the essence of familial relations, societal expectations, and the humorous chaos that arises from unexpected transformations.

Location

Daniels Family Home, Local Museum, Roshak’s Warehouse

The Daniels family home serves as the central hub of the family's experiences, marked by a sense of vulnerability after recent burglaries. The local museum, where the fateful Borgia ring is discovered, highlights the intersection of crime and historical treasures. Roshak’s warehouse acts as a critical location for Wilby's sting operation against the corrupt district attorney, showcasing the gritty backdrop against which these events unfold.

🏠 Home 🖼️ Museum 🏭 Warehouse

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:11

Main Characters – The Shaggy Dog (1959)
Meet the key characters of The Shaggy Dog (1959), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Wilby Daniels (Fred MacMurray)

Wilby is a dedicated family man thrust into a whirlwind of crisis following a series of burglaries. His character evolves from a composed individual to an indignant crusader, determined to clear his family’s name and seek justice. The experience of shape-shifting adds layers to his personality, revealing his vulnerabilities as he navigates through chaos.

👨‍👩‍👦 Family 🎩 Determination

Betty Daniels (Jean Hagen)

Betty is Wilby’s wife, initially skeptical of his shape-shifting abilities but ultimately becomes an integral part of the adventure as she grapples with the bizarre circumstances surrounding her husband. Her support provides the emotional backbone for Wilby as he confronts challenges, showcasing her strength and loyalty.

💪 Loyalty 👩‍❤️‍👨 Support

John Slade (Alexander Scourby)

John Slade represents the corrupt authority in the story, entangled with organized crime. His sinister ambitions pose a direct threat to Wilby and his family's safety. Slade’s character reveals the darker side of politics, providing a compelling antagonist against which the protagonist must fight.

🚔 Corruption 👊 Antagonist

Brian Daniels (Kevin Corcoran)

Brian, Wilby’s son, is initially confused by his father's transformations but serves as a loyal ally throughout their chaotic journey. His belief in Wilby’s ability to communicate as a dog adds a layer of innocence to the story while reinforcing the theme of family loyalty.

👦 Innocence 🐶 Loyalty

Tim (Tim Considine)

Tim is a friend of the Daniels family who provides comic relief and chaos amidst the mayhem. His interactions highlight the confusion and misunderstandings that arise during Wilby’s transformation and add to the humorous tone of the movie.

😂 Humor 🤷‍♂️ Confusion

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:11

Major Themes – The Shaggy Dog (1959)
Explore the central themes of The Shaggy Dog (1959), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕵️‍♂️ Crime and Justice

The narrative revolves around the pursuit of justice as Wilby seeks to expose corruption within the district attorney's office. His journey is packed with comedic elements, but it underscores the serious themes of betrayal and the lengths one will go to protect their family and community.

🐾 Transformation

Wilby's ability to transform into a shaggy dog serves as both a comedic device and a metaphor for change. His transformations challenge his identity and compel him to confront the duality of his existence—balancing his human aspirations with the instincts of a dog.

🎉 Family and Friendship

Amid the chaos, the importance of family bonds and friendship shines through. Wilby's relationship with his son, Brian, and their canine allies highlight the strength found in unity. The eventual embrace of his new canine companions symbolizes the broader theme of finding a place where one truly belongs.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:11

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