Joe Camp, the pioneering filmmaker behind the beloved “Benji” movies, passed away at the age of 84 at his home in Bell Buckle, Tenn. Camp’s son, Brandon Camp, confirmed his father’s death, stating that he had been battling a long illness.
Camp’s journey to becoming a filmmaker was not an easy one. Despite facing numerous rejections early in his career, he never gave up on his dream. In 1971, he co-founded Mulberry Square Productions with cinematographer James Nicodemus in Dallas, far from the traditional film industry hubs of Los Angeles and New York.
The idea for “Benji” came to Camp while watching “Lady and the Tramp” with his first wife, Carolyn. Inspired by his own dog’s expressions, Camp envisioned a film told from a dog’s perspective. With little experience, he wrote the script in one sitting and raised $500,000 to bring the story to life.
“Benji” premiered in 1974 and became a massive success, grossing around $40 million and challenging traditional filmmaking norms. Camp went on to create several more “Benji” films, as well as a children’s show in 1983.
Camp’s insistence on creative control and keeping his films family-friendly set him apart in Hollywood. He believed in telling heartwarming stories without profanity or inappropriate content, a stance that resonated with audiences.
In addition to his filmmaking career, Camp also had a passion for horses and wrote a memoir about his experiences with them. However, it is his work on the “Benji” series that will be his lasting legacy, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and never give up.
Camp’s son Brandon, along with his father, continued the “Benji” legacy with a 2018 reboot. Joe Camp’s dedication to storytelling and his belief in the power of perseverance will be remembered by fans and filmmakers alike.
