53
Metascore
9 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 70The New York TimesJanet MaslinThe New York TimesJanet MaslinAll things considered, Benji's ability to hold the viewer's interest is remarkable, as is his sweetness with the cubs and his fearlessness with larger, predatory types. Adults are likely to stay alert, and any child who has so much as petted a poodle will probably find the animal footage irresistible.
- 63Miami HeraldHal BoedekerMiami HeraldHal BoedekerBenji the Hunted is better-than-average family entertainment with some flaws. An irritating musical score undercuts the beauty of the nature scenes. The human performances are regrettable and look downright amateurish next to the animal. Benji is good. Just look into his haunting eyes, and you know why this doggie is a star.
- 60TV Guide MagazineTV Guide MagazineCharming.
- 60Los Angeles TimesSheila BensonLos Angeles TimesSheila BensonThe animal photography is what gives Benji the Hunted its greatest appeal for both children and their parents, but the film makers' notion of wild animal behavior is peculiarly suburban and misleading.
- 50Chicago ReaderPat GrahamChicago ReaderPat GrahamDirector Joe Camp, the inspirational hand behind the Benji series, shows some remarkable logistic skills in setting up his scenes, and the wilderness photography is never less than impressive, but there ought to be more to harmless entertainment than following wagging tails across the screen. Some formidable displays of technique here, but the treacly anthropomorphism makes it all seem trivial and wasted.
- 50Washington PostRita KempleyWashington PostRita KempleyIt's like Rambo's "First Blood," with an action hero in dog tags who doesn't talk much.
- 50Chicago TribuneGene SiskelChicago TribuneGene SiskelThere are more chases than cute "awwww" scenes in the movie and on that basis it is not particularly entertaining. Benji runs himself and us ragged. [19 June 1987, p.A]
- 50Chicago TribuneDave KehrChicago TribuneDave KehrIt's also likely that audiences other than the very young will find the action too restricted and too repetitive. It's far too modest and leisurely a film for children who have been exposed to MTV. Still, there is a charm in Camp's relaxed, low-tech approach; his is a cottage industry that merits a degree of respect and support. [19 June 1987, p.G]
- 50Tampa Bay TimesTampa Bay TimesBenji the Hunted lacks the charm of the previous films, and although the production values are excellent, the film makers are saying, "We did it for the money." What else is new? Film makers named Stallone, Norris and Schwarzenegger do it all the time. There is no reason not to expect it of Benji's owners. [19 June 1987, p.3D]