Where the Red Fern Grows is quite simply, a wonderful story for all ages and all time. A boy's yearning for two redbone hound dogs, which his parents couldn't afford during the desolate times of the Depression in the Ozarks, is the setting for this truly triumphant film. Billy's grandfather (James Whitmore, in a splendid performance) promises the lad that God will meet him halfway if he believes in himself and his beloved dogs. Billy faces adventure, suspense, tragedy and ultimately, a love and loyalty of family and friendship to realize his dream. The outcome makes for the kind of heartwarming story that great family films are all about.