Garfield Gets Real

When a bone crosses the screen, two friends get stuck between worlds—but not forever.

Garfield Gets Real is a 2007 American animated adventure comedy film based on the classic comic strip. Produced by Paws, Inc., Davis Entertainment, and The Animation Picture Company, it was distributed by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment. Written by creator Jim Davis, who began the script in autumn 1996, this project marks the third Garfield film following The Movie and A Tail of Two Kitties. Released on DVD to stores on August 9, 2007, the film introduces a unique setting where cartoon characters live in 'Toon World' while their stories are sent to the real world.

Quick Facts

Director

Mark A.Z. Dippé

Writer

Jim Davis

Based on

Garfield, Jim Davis

Producer

Jim Davis; John Davis

Editing

Rob Neal

Music

Kenneth Burgomaster

Studio

Davis Entertainment
Paws, Inc.
The Animation Picture Company

Distributor

20th Century Fox Home Entertainment

Lore & Background

The story unfolds in Toon World, a vibrant realm inhabited by comic strip characters like Garfield, his girlfriend Arlene, frenemy Nermal, Billy Bear, Randy Rabbit, and inventors Wally Stegman and Bonita. Here, comics are created at Comic Studios and shipped to the real world for newspapers and books. The narrative shifts when Garfield, bored with old jokes and life in Toon World, longs for the 'real' world. A pivotal moment occurs when a bone intended for Odie accidentally passes through the studio screen into reality. Eli, a technician, explains that the screen separates the worlds, but the barrier is not permanent—Garfield and Odie eventually find a way back to Toon World. When Garfield sneaks through, he is discovered, and Eli patches the hole with special tape. However, Odie jumps after his bone and gets sucked in just before the seal is complete, trapping both temporarily.

Reader's Guide

Fans should note that this film features cameo appearances by Dagwood Bumstead from Blondie and Grimm from Mother Goose and Grimm, similar to Who Framed Roger Rabbit. The plot hinges on specific mechanics: the screen separates worlds, and a patch prevents return unless one is already crossing it. Key turning points include Odie's accidental transport, the failed audition against Hale and Hardy, and the fire at Hotel Muncie. The resolution involves Wally's 'Bonitanator' invention saving everyone from the burning inn. Post-credits details reveal Shecky achieves stardom while Hale and Hardy live on the streets. Interestingly, the Chihuahuas who chased Odie in the real world secretly stowed away on the tunnel to return home. The film was released theatrically only in Turkey, where it opened at number two with $592,974 from 130 theaters.

Did You Know?

Wally Stegman names his rescue invention the 'Bonitanator' because its blade reminds him of his wife, Bonita.
Despite negative reviews and earning approximately $1.7 million internationally against a modest direct-to-video budget, it launched a trilogy including Garfield's Fun Fest (2008) and Garfield's Pet Force (2009).

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the main characters in this movie?

Beyond Garfield, Odie, and Jon Arbuckle, the film features new allies like Shecky and Wally Stegman alongside returning friends such as Nermal and Arlene. These characters help navigate the conflict between their animated existence and reality.

What is the main plot premise?

The adventure begins when a bone crosses the screen, trapping Garfield and Odie in the real world instead of their comic strip dimension. They must find a way to return home before becoming stuck between worlds forever.