Son of Lassie

(S. Sylvan Simon, US 1945, 102 min., 35mm)

Dryden Kids. Gorgeously shot in Technicolor, the second in MGM’s massively successful seven-film series follows the adventures of grown-up Joe Carraclough (Peter Lawford), now an RAF pilot, who is shot down over Nazi-occupied Norway along with a stowaway: Laddie, the son of Joe’s beloved Rough Collie Lassie (in a remarkable dual performance, the great canine star Pal plays both mother and son). Quite a bit darker in tone than Lassie Come Home—only fitting, given the war-time setting—but still great for kids, this is one sequel that delivers all the thrills and, yes, tears of its celebrated predecessor. Free for ages 17 & younger.