Common Sense Media Review
By Tracey Petherick
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Touching family drama about friendship and chasing dreams.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
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The Biscuit Eater
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Set in 1940s Tennessee, THE BISCUIT EATER follows the story of two friends, Lonnie (Johnny Whitaker) and Text (George Spell), who vow to train up a supposedly "untrainable" dog named Moreover. Bred as a gun dog, to help hunters in finding and retrieving birds, Moreover has been written off as a "biscuit eater" -- meaning he'd rather eat biscuits (or, worse, suck eggs) than bother with training. Determined to prove everyone wrong, the boys persevere with Moreover and enter him into the state Field Trial Championships. But they're up against Lonnie's dad Harve (Earl Holliman) and his prize-winning dog Silver Belle. Will Moreover have what it takes to win? And even if he does, can Lonnie and Text protect their beloved dog from the wicked local farmer?
Is It Any Good?
This Disney remake of a popular 1940 original is a heartwarming take on the good old-fashioned "one boy and his dog" genre. Full of charming characters displaying warmth, kindness, and strong moral compasses it runs the risk of being twee and outdated but -- despite the 1970s production standards -- it actually shines. When the phrase "Ain't nothin' but a suck-egg biscuit eater" feels like the most shocking of insults -- and it's directed at a dog -- you know you're in for a family-friendly experience.
The cast -- both adults and kids -- has a pleasing chemistry, with plenty of moments that will make you smile, and there's just enough peril and anticipation to keep you keen. There's no denying this is a gentle offering from a simpler time, but what this story lacks in high-octane action, it makes up for with its big heart. Plus, by not even acknowledging the characters' racial differences, The Biscuit Eater largely depicts a harmonious, inclusive community. And while this may be a naive and unrealistic portrayal of the 1940s Tennessee setting, it is nevertheless cause for optimism amid a touching tale.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the uplifting tone and positive messages in The Biscuit Eater. Do you enjoy movies that feature sweet relationships with no trauma or tragedies? Or do you prefer the excitement of fast-paced action and peril?
Discuss the hunting scenes in the movie. How did they make you feel? Why do some people hunt? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
In what ways are Lonnie and Text good role models? Talk about the qualities they both possess, like loyalty, kindness, and perseverance. Why are these good character strengths to have?
Talk about the mix of black and white characters in the movie. Why is it notable that the characters all get along, without racial tension or prejudices getting in the way? Do you think this was a realistic portrayal for the time period? How did it make you feel?
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 22, 1972
- On DVD or streaming : May 21, 2002
- Cast : Earl Holliman , Johnny Whitaker , George Spell
- Director : Vincent McEveety
- Studio : Buena Vista
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Animals , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 92 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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