Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure

Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure has built a real following in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus among viewers who do not usually seek out animation. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. A 6/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. A harder one to justify skipping than to start. Available now on Disney Plus — press play and find out why people keep recommending it.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure is worth clearing space for. Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure treats animation as a medium, not a limitation. Lady and Tramp's mischievous pup, Scamp, gets fed up with rules and restrictions imposed on him by life in a family, and longs for a wild and free lifestyle. He runs away from home and into the streets where he joins a pack of stray dogs known as the "Junkyard Dogs." Buster, the pack's leader, takes an instant disliking to the "house-dog" and considers him a rival. Angel, a junkyard pup Scamp's age, longs for the safety and comfort of life in a family and the two become instant companions. The voice work from Scott Wolf and Alyssa Milano adds real texture, not just recognisable names. It hit screens in 2001. Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure uses the freedom of animation to tell stories live-action could not attempt. It delivers reliably on what it promises, which is more than most of its competition manages.

Genuinely enjoyable for a wide range of viewers, Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure treats animation as a delivery mechanism, not a limitation. If you have run out of similar titles to watch, this is a strong next pick. Best experienced as a single, sustained watch from start to finish. The writing operates at a level the format's reputation does not fully prepare you for. Adult animation that actually works for adults.