Jock of the Bushveld [DVD] [2011]

Great quality, a lesson in history well learned.

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.

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.

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.

My father gave me this book to read when I was a child and loved it. Many years later, as a teen I found it and re-read it, again enjoying every page. Time, as always, moves on. An old friend of my now late father, on seeing the book, asked had I enjoyed it. I told him it was probably my best fiction book. The following day he called to pick me up saying he wanted to show me something. It was a good long drive but the scenery in Africa is always beautiful. We stopped and walked for a bit and then, without saying anything, showed me this monument. This is when I discovered Jock was a true story. It was not a headstone just one of many memorial stones along their route. I have since visited all and finding this out has changed my view of the book. Sadly I no longer live there but have passed the book onto my granddaughter. I will not tell her its true until she finishes it, then I can show her all the old photos.

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

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!!!

I love this movie even named my dog after the star

The item was as described and arrived quickly

Poor story ( I didn't read the book which I bet is much more interesting ), poor landscape ( !!! ), is neither for kids or adults. The only thing worthwhile watching is the demo video , you can find on you tube, with the song of the late Johnny Clegg. Storia leggerina e piena di luoghi comuni, anche la love story. Se amate l'africa e vi aspettate qualcosa di coinvolgente lasciate perdere. L'unica cosa interessante è il video estratto che trovate su you tube con la musica di Johnny Clegg.

Excellent story about the love of a man and his canine companion until the animals passing. It showed how dogs have given us their absolute all. We are the center of their universe and that we as humans are the focus of their love, faith and trust. It is without a doubt the best deal man has ever made. Would love to have another copy.

It's the South African version of Huck Fin/Tom Sawyer. Great story and the best treatment by far. A great view of the opening up of Africa 150 years ago

A simple love story similar to old style Westerns, however set during the Gold Rush years in the Eatern Transvaal, South Africa. Those who have seen or who were born in Southern Africa will feel a little nostalgia after watching this little gem.