Old Yeller Ending Explained, Plot, Cast, and More
by Tamilchandran | Updated May 05, 2023
Old Yeller Movie
"Old Yeller" is a 1957 American drama film directed by Robert Stevenson and produced by Walt Disney. The movie is based on the 1956 novel of the same name by Fred Gipson. The story is set in Texas in the 1860s and follows the relationship between a young boy named Travis Coates (played by Tommy Kirk) and his loyal dog, Old Yeller. Travis initially resents Old Yeller when the dog joins the family, but over time, they become inseparable companions.
The film depicts their adventures on the ranch, including their encounters with wild animals and their efforts to protect the family from danger. Eventually, tragedy strikes when Old Yeller is bitten by a rabid wolf, and Travis must make a difficult decision. "Old Yeller" was a critical and commercial success upon its release and has become a classic of American cinema.
The film is known for its heartwarming story, beautiful cinematography, and memorable performances. It is often cited as a classic example of the "Disney brand" of family entertainment, and its emotional ending has left a lasting impact on generations of viewers.
Old Yeller Ending Explained
The ending of "Old Yeller" is a heartbreaking moment that has left a lasting impression on audiences for generations. After Old Yeller is bitten by a rabid wolf while protecting the family, he becomes infected with the disease. Travis is forced to make a difficult decision he must shoot Old Yeller to prevent him from suffering and potentially infecting the rest of the family. Travis is devastated by the loss of his beloved dog, and the scene is a poignant moment of loss and grief.
However, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of responsibility and making difficult decisions in life. Travis must learn to accept the harsh realities of life and move forward despite his pain. The ending of "Old Yeller" has been the subject of much discussion and analysis over the years. Some critics have interpreted it as a metaphor for the loss of innocence and the transition to adulthood.
Others have seen it as a commentary on the harsh realities of life in the American West during the 19th century. However, regardless of how one interprets the ending, it remains a powerful and emotional moment in American cinema.
Old Yeller Plot
Old Yeller" is a story set in rural Texas in the 1860s, and it follows the life of a young boy named Travis Coates (played by Tommy Kirk) and his family. Travis lives on a farm with his mother, Katie (Dorothy McGuire), and his younger brother, Arliss (Kevin Corcoran). One day, a stray dog shows up at their farm and becomes a loyal companion to Travis and his family. The dog is a yellow Labrador Retriever, and Travis names him "Old Yeller."
Travis initially resents Old Yeller, as he sees the dog as a threat to his place as the man of the house. However, over time, Travis grows to love and respect Old Yeller as the dog proves his worth on the farm. Old Yeller helps Travis with his chores, protects the family from wild animals, and becomes a beloved member of the family. The family's peaceful existence is threatened by the arrival of a neighbor, Bud Searcy (Jeff York), who warns them of the danger posed by a rabid wolf that has been attacking livestock in the area.
Despite their precautions, Old Yeller is eventually bitten by the wolf while protecting the family from an attack. The family is forced to quarantine Old Yeller, but when it becomes clear that the dog is suffering from rabies, Travis is forced to make a difficult decision. He must put Old Yeller down to prevent the disease from spreading and to end the dog's suffering. The movie ends with Travis saying goodbye to his loyal friend and coming to terms with the harsh realities of life.
The story of "Old Yeller" is a heartwarming tale of friendship, loyalty, and the bond between humans and animals. It also deals with themes of loss, grief, and the harsh realities of life in the American West during the 19th century.
Cast of Old Yeller
Cast
Character
Spike
Old Yeller
Fess Parker
Jim Coates
Dorothy McGuire
Katie Coates
Tommy Kirk
Travis Coates
Kevin Corcoran
Arliss Coates
Jeff York
Bud Searcy
Beverly Washburn
Lisbeth Searcy
Chuck Connors
Burn Sanderson
Old Yeller Where to Watch?
"Old Yeller" is available to watch on Disney+ Hotstar in select countries. To watch the movie on Disney+ Hotstar, follow these steps:
Old Yeller Trailer
You can watch the trailer for "Old Yeller" on both YouTube and Disney+ Hotstar.
To watch the trailer on Disney+ Hotstar, follow the same steps as mentioned earlier to search for "Old Yeller" on the platform. Once you have found the movie, look for an option to watch the trailer on its page.
Old Yeller ending explained - FAQs
Based on Fred Gipson's 1962 novel of the same name, Savage Sam is a 1963 American Western movie that serves as a sequel to Old Yeller.
Old Yeller is a male dog.
8 and higher. While old yeller is a fantastic movie for young children, there is some mild violence when he is battling a wolf, a bear, and a hog.
Fighting the wolf, Old Yeller defends the family. Travis must choose between shooting the man who bit him during the altercation and waiting it out to see if Old Yeller contracts rabies. After a tense interval, Travis decides he cannot risk putting his family in danger and shoots the dog.
The moral of the story is that one must make difficult choices in order to safeguard their loved ones.