Hollywood Flashback: When ‘Turner & Hooch’ Brought the Bark

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In the years prior to Universal’s animated film “Dog Man,” based on Dav Pilkey’s graphic novel series about a half-dog, half-human police officer, Tom Hanks had already made his mark alongside a dog in a law enforcement role. The movie, titled “Turner & Hooch,” hit theaters in 1989, featuring Detective Scott Turner (Hanks) and his unruly French Mastiff partner who help solve a murder together.

Henry Winkler, who was initially chosen to direct the movie “Turner & Hooch” in 1988, but was let go a few weeks into filming due to Disney Studios boss Jeffrey Katzenberg’s concerns about Winkler struggling with filming the dog. Roger Spottiswoode, who took over, recalled that Katzenberg approached him because he wanted a more improvisational approach for Hanks and the dog. When Spottiswoode proposed using five cameras to capture their improvisation, he was given the job. Winkler subtly hinted at conflicts with Tom Hanks during an interview by saying, “Let’s just say I got along better with Hooch than I did with Turner.” However, Winkler later clarified that there were no hard feelings between him and Hanks. Additionally, Spottiswoode recalled Katzenberg suggesting they recast Mare Winningham’s character, the vet in the movie, but Hanks advocated for her; ultimately, Katzenberg agreed.

In 2001, Spottiswoode employed four dogs for the role of Hooch, finding it enjoyable during the filming process. However, Hanks might have held a different opinion, stating that it was his toughest work ever. Recalling the experience, Reginald VelJohnson, who portrayed a detective, mentioned working alongside Angela Bassett in scenes as his on-screen wife. Unfortunately, these scenes didn’t make it to the final cut of the film. “I was disappointed when they removed her from the movie,” he shared.

On July 28, 1989, Buena Vista premiered the movie “Turner & Hooch,” which went on to earn approximately $71 million ($179 million in current value). Fast forward to 2021, Disney+ unveiled a series remake featuring Josh Peck as Turner. Director Spottiswoode comments that animal films can be endearing and the right cast was chosen for Hanks and the dogs. He adds that he aimed to let their natural chemistry shine without interfering too much.

In the January 29 edition of The Hollywood Reporter magazine, this story was published. To keep up with more such stories, consider subscribing [here].

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2025-02-01 21:55