The Call of the Wild (2020) is a live-action/CGI hybrid adventure film based on Jack London’s classic 1903 novel of the same name. Directed by Chris Sanders, the film tells the story of Buck, a large, lovable dog who is stolen from his comfortable California home and sold into the harsh wilderness of the Yukon Territory during the Klondike Gold Rush. The story is a tale of survival, friendship, and discovering one’s true strength in the face of adversity.

Plot Overview

The film follows Buck, a domesticated dog who is suddenly uprooted from his life of luxury in the South and forced into a brutal, unforgiving environment. After being sold to a sled team in Alaska, Buck is thrust into the wild where he encounters new challenges and learns to adapt to the dangers of nature. His journey is a transformative one, where he grows from a pampered pet into a fierce, wild animal, connected to his instincts and the wilderness that surrounds him.

Buck forms an inseparable bond with John Thornton (played by Harrison Ford), a seasoned prospector who is also seeking purpose in his own life. Together, Buck and Thornton embark on an adventure that tests both their physical and emotional limits. The movie highlights themes of freedom, survival, and the powerful connection between humans and animals.

Main Characters

• Buck: The central character of the story, Buck is a large, strong dog who undergoes a significant transformation as he learns to survive in the wild. While his journey is one of physical endurance, it is also one of emotional growth as he learns to trust his instincts and find his place in the world.
• John Thornton (Harrison Ford): A grizzled prospector who forms a deep bond with Buck. He is a solitary man, but his relationship with Buck opens up his heart and gives him a renewed sense of purpose. Thornton’s own personal journey parallels Buck’s, as they both learn about resilience and the power of friendship.
• Francois and Perrault: A pair of French-Canadian sled team leaders who initially take Buck on his journey into the wild. They are both experienced and practical, though their roles in Buck’s life are more temporary, as the team is forced to move on to new owners.
• Hal and Mercedes: These characters are less sympathetic than others, and they serve as antagonists in the film. Hal, in particular, is reckless and irresponsible, which endangers both the sled dogs and the other people in the group. Mercedes, his sister, is naive but kind-hearted, caught in a difficult situation.