101 Dalmatians ★★½ 1996 (G) Yes, it's the live-action Disney version of their own 1961 animated feature (based on the book by Dodie Smith) about dognapping villainess Cruella De Vil (Close) and lots of spotted pups. They're absolutely adorable, of course, Cruella's costumes (and hair) are certainly eye-catching, and the bumbling crooks get their proper comeuppance. Daniels and Richardson have the thankless role of the dogs' human owners, Roger and Anita, and get upstaged at every opportunity. Kids familiar with the cartoon pups may be surprised that the live pups don't talk—and keep in mind that Close, while terrific, may be too scary for the little ones. The Hound is always happy to see another dog movie but still feels some classics should be left alone. 103m/C VHS, DVD. Glenn Close, Jeff Daniels, Joely Richardson, Joan Plowright, Hugh Laurie, Mark Williams;
Director:
Stephen Herek;
Writer:
John Hughes;
Writer:
Adrian Biddle;
Cameo:
Michael Kamen.
