102 Dalmatians

102 Dalmatians is currently streaming in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus, and it delivers exactly the kind of comedy that earns a loyal following. It says what it needs to say in one sitting, no filler. A 6/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Glenn Close is the obvious draw, but the whole ensemble earns its laughs. There is no real reason to keep putting it off — it is right there on Disney Plus.

There is a reason 102 Dalmatians keeps coming up in conversation. 102 Dalmatians gets the fundamentals right first, then finds room to get weird with it. Get ready for a howling good time as an all new assortment of irresistible animal heroes are unleashed in this great family tail! In an unlikely alliance, the outrageous Waddlesworth - a parrot who thinks he's a Rottweiler - teams up with Oddball - an un-marked Dalmatian puppy eager to earn her spots! Together they embark on a laugh-packed quest to outwit the ever-scheming Cruella De Vil. Glenn Close and Gérard Depardieu lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2000. The timing in 102 Dalmatians is precise enough that even the throwaway lines land on a second watch. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

If you need a comedy that actually makes you laugh, 102 Dalmatians is a strong candidate. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Glenn Close sets the tone, but the supporting cast is where a lot of the best moments come from. A reliable pick for any night you want quality comedy without the homework.