Greyfriars Bobby (film) When old Jock, a shepherd, is dismissed from service because of age, the little Skye terrier, Bobby, his constant companion, goes with him. And when old Jock dies of exposure a few days later, it is Bobby who travels unseen under the coffin as his friend is taken to be buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard, and keeps vigil over the grave. Nothing the caretaker, James Brown, can do prevents the little dog from getting back into the kirkyard, and eventually he stops trying as Bobby wins his heart, as well as the hearts of the poor children in the tenements nearby. The day comes when Bobby is picked up for lack of a dog license. Mr. and Mrs. Brown, and a band of children come to pay the fine, telling the Lord Provost Bobby’s story. He not only gives Bobby a license with his own hands, he also grants him the Freedom of the City, an honor bestowed only on the brave and faithful. Released on July 17, 1961. Directed by Don Chaffey. Based on a true story, as told by Eleanor Atkinson. 91 min. Stars Donald Crisp (James Brown), Laurence Naismith (Mr. Traill), Alex MacKenzie (Old Jock), Kay Walsh (Mrs. Brown). Filmed on location in Scotland. The film received favorable reviews, but the Scottish accents were hard on Americans’ ears, so the film very soon appeared on Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color for a television airing in 1964. Today a visitor to Edinburgh is often surprised to see a statue near the entrance to Greyfriars Kirkyard honoring the devoted Greyfriars Bobby. Released on video in 1986.
