For anyone who witnessed the emotive display of canine thespian skills in the original Benji film, it was clear that audiences hadn’t seen the last of the four-legged film star. With his scruffy appearance, diminutive size and sad puppy dog eyes (the likes of which wouldn’t be seen again, at least not until Elijah Wood emerged,) Benji would not only be rewarded with a Milkbone or two, but also a pair of sequels. And in the third and final installment, Benji the Hunted, America’s favorite street-smart pooch would face his most daunting adventure yet.

This time around, an innocent fishing trip with his master, Frank (played by real-life trainer, Frank Inn) leads to Benji becoming shipwrecked in the Washington/Oregon wilderness. Franks efforts to locate the missing mutt are thwarted by the dense forest surroundings and Benji is left to fend for himself and find his way back to civilization. During the course of his travels, he becomes the pooch protector to a pack of cougar cubs who tragically lost their mother to a hunter’s rifle, and keeps them safe from a gray wolf who sees the litter as his dinner.

As could be expected, the film was primarily carried by Benji’s masterful display of emotion-filled expression, surrounded by a backdrop of magnificent outdoor scenery. Dialog was kept to a bare minimum, save for the occasional “woof,” and allowed Benji to show his talents in a silent display that combined humor and pathos akin to a canine version of Charlie Chaplin. His memorable performances ensured this trilogy of films would evoke fond memories for years to come.