The Journey Of Natty Gann

Originally published on social media on April 18th, 2022

Disney during the 1980s and 90s mastered the art of historical fiction, and this is one of its finest pieces of historical imitation. This film takes place during the Great Depression and brings light to often forgotten aspect of this era. Did you know that “At the height of the Great Depression, more than 250,000 teenagers were living on the road in America” (“Riding the Rails). Many of them sneaked on to trains in attempt to relocate and find work. If you ever want to learn more about this, watch the PBS documentary “Riding the Rails”.

The Journey of Natty Gann takes a teenage girl from Chicago to Washington State to reunite with her father who left to work in lumber because there were no other options.

It’s a heart warming story, and is so well done. This is one that literally the whole family could enjoy! The soundtrack, the acting, the relationship between Natty and the wolf, a young attractive John Cusack, everything is wonderful. While a lot happens in the movie, the overall tone is pretty mellow and it makes the film kind of relaxing.

On a personal note, I have to say that this is one of the only animal related films I can watch. You will never see me review most dog movies for instance because many of them can be sad and it is TOO MUCH for me. I’m glad there is a happy ending here for the wolf too!

Also, I love historical fiction, but it can exaggerate the truth at times. Disney got it right with this film. You see the actual dangers Natty Gann went through traveling as a teenage woman ALONE across the United States. This is done tastefully, exposing the imminent danger without being graphic.

All of this being said, this film is extremely underrated and rarely discussed.