A Dog Named Christmas

Overview

Todd McCray, played by Bruce Greenwood, is a developmentally challenged young man in A Dog Named Christmas. He has a special connection with animals, particularly dogs. But why is this?

Well, it could be from the experiences hes had in his life. Growing up without a father, he has had to rely on his own determination and the unconditional love of animals. Its no surprise then that he develops a bond with his dog, Christy, as they spend time together - going on walks, playing in the park, and just hanging out.

Its clear that Todd has a special place in his heart for animals, and its his bond with Christy that ultimately helps him to overcome the challenges he faces. This is a heartwarming example of the power of the human-animal bond.

Willa McCray (Debbie Reynolds): Todds grandmother and caretaker.

Willa McCray, played by the legendary Debbie Reynolds, is Todds grandmother and caretaker. She is the backbone of this movie and her character is truly inspiring. How does she react when her grandson tells her of his Christmas wish? Does she support him or does she stand in his way?

Willa McCray is a character many of us can relate to. She is a strong and loving grandmother who wants the best for her grandson, yet at the same time she is also faced with tough decisions. Willa is a wonderful example of how to balance life, love and responsibility.

Mayor John McCray (Gary Cole): Todds father and the mayor of the small town they live in.

Mayor John McCray, played by Gary Cole, is Todds father and the mayor of the small town they live in. He may be the mayor, but he doesnt seem to share his sons enthusiasm for rescuing dogs. Hes stern and sticks to his beliefs, but deep down he loves his son and wants him to be happy. So when he learns that Todd has adopted a stray dog, he reluctantly allows him to keep the animal. In the end, Mayor McCray learns that his sons passion can be a force for good and he even helps Todd to find a home for the dog. Whats more, his newfound appreciation for pets leads him to adopt a rescue dog of his own.

Judy McCray (Kathleen Rose Perkins): Todds mother and the mayors wife.

Judy McCray, played by Kathleen Rose Perkins, is Todds mother and the mayors wife in A Dog Named Christmas (2009). But what kind of woman would she be, to allow her son to keep a stray dog?

Would she be a pushover, unable to say no to her son?

Or, would she be a loving mother, willing to make sacrifices to make her son happy?

As it turns out, Judy is both. She has a strength of character to allow her son to make his own decisions, while also being kind and understanding of his needs. In the end, Judy proves to be an important part of the movie, supporting her son and the town in their quest to save Christmas.

Tom Hunter (Judah Friedlander): A local animal control officer.

Tom Hunter, played by Judah Friedlander, is a local animal control officer and the main antagonist in A Dog Named Christmas. An animal lover at heart, hes determined to capture the stray dog that has been adopted by a family for Christmas. Despite his best efforts, he discovers that theres more to this case than meets the eye. Is it possible that Tom will eventually realize the importance of the dog and its significance to the family? Will he break with protocol and help the family keep the dog? Well have to wait and see.

Mrs. Henderson (Gailard Sartain): A local elderly woman who takes in one of the dogs.

Mrs. Henderson, played by Gailard Sartain, is an elderly woman living in a small town. Shes a loner, living alone and rarely ever seen interacting with anyone else. But when she sees the abandoned dog, she takes him in and gives him the name Christmas. Despite her rough exterior, she shows a kind, caring side to the dog, providing a safe haven for him and ultimately becoming a figure of hope in the community. Mrs. Hendersons generosity is what ultimately inspires the other townsfolk to join the cause and save Christmas.