Pet News

The Search is On for the Next Benji

Written by Rachel Phelps

My pals at Disney have let me in on a secret! They are re-launching the iconic dog film “Benji!” I have to admit, Benji is one of my favorite movies. Benji was one brave dog! Walden Media (“The Chronicles of Narnia Series”) and Writer-Director-Producer, Brandon Camp (“Love Happens”) are behind the new movie.

While this is exciting, I have even BIGGER news! They are looking for the next dog star to be in the movie! I’m not talking about Benji’s sidekick or a cameo role either. I’m talking about the “leading mutt”, Benji himself! According to Brandon Camp, who is updating the franchise started by his father, Benji creator Joe Camp, Jr. in 1974, “Benji is a special dog who has won over the hearts of millions of moviegoers with a unique combination of adorably shaggy appearance, astounding intelligence, and irresistible personality,”. He goes on to say that “Finding the right dog to play him is an essential element of making this movie, so we’re casting a wide net and leaving no stone unturned. That includes using social media to reach dog-owners who might have a perfect Benji of their own at home.” They are looking nationwide in animal shelters as well as traditional animal talent agencies and trainers for the perfect dog who has the looks, charisma, and ability to take direction.

They are also using social media to look as well! Anyone can submit a photo of their dog, or of a dog they know, by going to the official Benji The Movie Facebook page. Any dog (breed, size, gender, age) can be submitted – this includes personal pets and shelter dogs! If you think your dog or another dog you know has superstar qualities, this could be their big break! So go to www.Facebook.com/benjithemovie to enter your dog.

But honestly, I think I’M THE PERFECT DOG TO STAR IN THE MOVIE! Ok, I know I don’t have the Benji look, but I think I can pull off the lead even if I’m a Westie. I have the star quality, the training (and trainability), and of course the personality! So, if you don’t have a dog of your own to enter, please go to www.Facebook.com/benjithemovie and comment on my photo saying we want Preston in your movie! It is time I am the next dog breakout movie star! I’ll see you on the red carpet! Hehehe

About the author

Rachel Phelps

Rachel Phelps, “America’s Pet Parent,” is an award-winning writer, photographer, and certified dog trainer. She keeps busy managing the career of her Internet celebrity dog Preston from Preston Speaks. Her three Westies — who think they are mini-humans — and three cats rule the house. To learn more about Rachel go to: Rachel Phelps Website

6 Comments

  • Preston, you so could be the next Benji. Your first movie could be you saving your brother Elvis from the puppy mill. I will explain to Bella that you may have to make eyes at your leading lady, but that is just acting.

    • Bella,

      I love your movie idea..saving Elvis! We need to make our own movie this summer! It wold be so much fun. Also, Bella I’m glad that you’re not the jealous type at all! Thats’ why we are the best of friends! I have dealt with a crazy jealous poodle in the past and it wasn’t fun. BOL

  • You ARE the perfect Benji Preston!! You have to ‘go brown’…do you have a good groomer 🙂 I grew up with Benji, happy to see it make a comeback…

    • Well I go “brown” every time I roll in a mud puddle hehehehe 🙂 If I could be in a movie I would so let them die my hair 🙂

  • I would love to see a new Benji movie with you in it! If the lead role doesn’t work out I’m sure they’ll need lots of adorable extras!

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