On February 3rd, 1993, Walt Disney Pictures released Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey, The film would get great reviews and became beloved in its own right, but there may be several reasons for that! Now, Disney diehards, as well as longtime fans that were around in 1963, are well aware of the original Walt Disney produced, The Incredible Journey. The 1963 production had some simply incredible footage that we’re not so sure you could get away with filming today – but also told its story in a different way than its 90’s counterpart. The 90’s retelling brought us along with Shadow, Sassy, and Chance – who we can hear communicate with each other – whilst the 60’s film had a narrator (Rex Allen) follow Tao, Luath, and Bodger.
Both versions of this tale may have different characters and backstories, but the heart remains the same: A female cat and her male dog companions undertake a great journey to make their way back to the owners that they love. The trio faces hardships, adventures and trials – all to make it back home. Whichever film you choose to dive into first, make sure to watch both. They both are true Disney classics!
The ‘93 tale has some phenomenal actors that lend their voices to these iconic animals: Michael J. Fox (Back to the Future) voices the spunky American Bulldog, Chance, Don Ameche (Cocoon) voices Shadow, the sage Golden Retriever, and Sally Field (Forrest Gump) lends her voice to Sassy, the pampered Himalayan. The famous celebs are truly the perfect voices for these animals and as a child watching, you begin to believe that the voices are truly the animals.
Homeward Bound was such a success that in 1996, its sequel Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco made its debut. Now, the voices would mainly stay the same, but the voice of Shadow would change. Shadow’s original voice actor, Don Ameche, had passed in 1993. Shadow would be voiced by Ralph Waite in the second film.
We truly love this film. Make sure you approach this film with a box of tissues at the ready because it’s known to be a tear-jerker. Though the 1963 version is really about man’s best friend, the ’93 story really highlights the special relationship between children and their pets. The lengths they will go to, and the trials they share. The film is wonderful for the whole family and will maybe end with you grabbing the nearest fur-baby around you and holding them tight. Is this one of your favorite Disney films? Let us know in the comments below!
Images: Disney / D23
Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
Get started Now for your FREE No Obligation Quote.
Book With our friends at Destinations to Travel
- Celebrate 41 Years of Journey Into Imagination! - March 5, 2024
- 15 Fabulous Disney Crocs You Can Get on Amazon! - March 1, 2024
- Why We Love: Dockside Diner - February 27, 2024
