The 1957 Disney family drama Old Yeller scarred a generation of children, with its heartwarming relationship between two young boys and their heroic dog. It was more brutally realistic than most adult films in depicting the struggles of pioneer life. Sixty years later, Old Yeller has a 100% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes. You'd be hard-pressed to find a Baby Boomer whose eyes don't well up just thinking about the movie. While you're at it, you may as well check out some trivia about Old Yeller.
5. This was the Disney debut of Tommy Kirk and Kevin Corcoran.
They would both on to star in The Swiss Family Robinson and The Shaggy Dog, but would also explore other movies throughout their careers.
4. The ‘wolf’ was actually a German shepherd.
The shepherd was made up to look like a wolf and both dogs were taught how to play-fight. During these bouts they were always muzzled so as to avoid any accidental damage.
Read more about Old Yeller at TVOM.