I was browsing Netflix and came across this classic from 1995. Balto, the story of a part-wolf part-dog who helped transport diphtheria antivenom to the besieged town of Nome, Alaska in the 1920's.

I understand Balto is a favorite of the furry fandom. I was 11 when this movie came out. I wanted to see it, but back then, I was shyer than a tortoise in the corner of a party, tucked in its shell with its tail between its legs.

So when I found out it was on, I decided to watch it for the very first time tonight, June 20-21, 2016. (Because it turned midnight)

It was quite a captivating story. The traditional animation was a bit rough, but the characters had believable personalities, better than Po the Kung Fu Panda for sure. I thought the antagonist Steele was going to die at some part in the story, but I was wrong. Turns out the only thing that died for him was his respect from the other dogs. (Wookiee drew a great anthro picture of him by the way!) :)

At the end of the movie, I felt a bit emotional, but didn't cry. It was based on a true story and some things in the film were fictionalized, but with what Balto went through, I admire his courage and determination. Definitely a Best Animated Film winner in my book. (I wish a feature length hand-drawn animated film would win that award over Pixar's material)

It ended with a live action shot of Balto's statue in Central Park, New York. I wish I could find that statue and thank him for his efforts. (and say "Requiescat in Pace" to him. As Ezio Auditore would say.)

So that's it. This film came out in 1995 and I watched it for the first time in 2016.

Good Night Balto, wherever you are. Thank you for what you've done...

Thank you for what you've done.