Whimsical, well-crafted comedy-mystery in which detective Chevy Chase returns to Earth in the body of that charming little mutt, Benji. A surprisingly adult film in several ways -- there's some middle level profanity and as much wit and pathos as there is cuteness. [11 July 1980, p.8]
70
Washington PostGary Arnold
Washington PostGary Arnold
A scruffy but appealing light entertainment, the movie owes its unexpected charm to the fact that comedian and dog seem to complement and humanize each other. [09 Sep 1980, p.C3]
50
The Globe and Mail (Toronto)Jay Scott
The Globe and Mail (Toronto)Jay Scott
As a risque children's entertainment, it's better than a street-corner dirty joke, but it's no place for adults to hang around. [17 July 1980]
Oh Heavenly Dog is diverting enough for its dog tricks - I like dog tricks, don't get me wrong - but it otherwise shows few signs of life, and many signs of depressing modernism.
40
TV Guide Magazine
TV Guide Magazine
This movie misfires in its attempt to combine a children's dog story and adult comedy by pairing Benji and Chevy Chase. Silly and slow-moving.
It's a total miscalculation from beginning to end, inspired by an idiotic decision to increase the average age of the Benji audience by starring him in a movie rated PG.