Jock of the Bushveld [DVD] [2011]

I read the book shortly before ordering the DVD and thoroughly enjoyed it. The book evokes the spirit and excitement of the European pioneers and early settlers of a wonderful country. The film makes a decent fist of trying to translate that atmosphere, with one or two departures from the book's storyline, notably the addition of a love interest.The film dates from 1986 and I think was first released on VHS. The quality of the picture on this DVD is not great. The sound is, understandably, mono. So technically, this doesn't have a lot to offer. There are no "extras".It should be noted that in this Czech presentation of the film, English language dialogue is selectable, and this item was ffered at a very reasonable price at time of purchase (especially when compared to buying the product from Australia or elsewhere at a very much higher cost from other outlets).Overall, I found the film lacked the detail and sheer story-telling expertise of the book. Nevertheless, it was good to see again some of the places I visited on a trip to South Africa, and the film's backdrops and scenery did help me better to imagine the scenes that were described in the book but necessarily omitted from the film.I feel that a second reading of the book would benefit a lot from my viewing of the DVD, and perhaps one day I'll do this. (But time is usually too short to do everything twice!)Anyone who has enjoyed the story of Percy and Jock will surely enjoy this film, but it is looking a bit dated now. An animated version of the story (with singer Bryan Adams voicing the dog) was released in 2009, but I have not yet seen this, partly due to poor reviews and its deliberate departure from the classic South African story. A modern version, true to the book and making the most of the fabulous Veld scenery, would be very welcome.

I love this movie even named my dog after the star

After reading the book, the film was always going to be a distant 2nd best. However, if you accept this, then the scenes of Africa, the animals, Jock's various encounters and the music make for a video well worth watching. There is considerable licence in the story (won't say what - for the benefit of future viewers) , but many of the scenes are recounted well and make you wonder at a tough and noble way of life now consigned to history. Inspiring and thought provoking!By the way ... I only became aware of this story this year whilst visiting South Africa for the 1st time and am so pleased to have done so and now feel considerably enriched by it.

Fantastic service from Czech Out. DVD arrived much earlier than stated and came presented with a ribbon around, postcard and full instructions of how to play the film in English. I've been wanting this film in my collection for a very long time and I remembered enjoying it very much as a child. It's not only entertaining but gives a very good insight into those very early years of South Africa's modern history. I would not hesitate to order again. Absolutely delighted. Thank you Czech Out

My wife lived fo 12 years in South Africa and always spoke very highly of Jock of the Bushvelt, my 3 children (all Adults now) think it a wonderful uplifting story, in keeping with Greyfriers Bobby and are clamouring for it to show to their spouses & children (I told them to buy there own)I purchased this through Amazon from WMD Services, and although it said it would take over a week to get it arrived within 4 days,Excellent service, keep up the good work.

FABULOUS TRUE STORY OF VERY FAMOUS TENACIOUS BULL TERRIER!!!!! Set in very harsh horse and cart times!!! A monument statue of jock stands in a national park in South Africa!!! The Runt of the litter saved from the bucket by the owner & co star of the film!!!! Very powerful fit Dog shows in no uncertain terms the True fearless fighting spirit of such breeds!!! Recommend watching several times at least!!!

The case arrived cracked & broken - two pieces broken off completely.

Great quality, a lesson in history well learned.