Run time: 96 mins

An oversized pooch teaches the world how to love big in this disarmingly sincere and heartwarming tale

Emily Elizabeth is a 12-year-old girl who lives alone with her mother in New York City. Emily attends an elite private school where bullies constantly mock and ostracize her. When her mother heads off on a business trip, Elizabeth’s playful, irresponsible and financially struggling artist manchild Uncle Casey (Jack Whitehall) is called in to look after her. When they accidentally end up with Clifford, an animal rescue puppy, their world’s are turned upside down after a throwaway wish sees him grow to an impossible size.

Based on the 60s literary series, Walt Becker’s film nicely captures the wholesome spirit of Clifford’s creator, Norman Bridwell, who wrote over 75 books about the mildly mischievous crimson hound. His adventures and mishaps spill out well on screen, with a supporting cast including the likes of John Cleese, Tony Hale and Kenan Thompson beefing up proceedings.

A larger-than-life adventure that maintains the heart of the original series, it’s hard not to fall for its puppy dog charm. (Chris Coetsee)