Opal finds a stray dog in a five and dime store called Winn-Dixie, and hence the strange name she gives her new pet. She adopts this mutt and forms a permanent bond. This loving little girl makes friends with several of the town's outcasts including an ex-alcoholic (Cicely Tyson), a spinster librarian (Eva Marie Saint), and a guitar-playing pet store manager (Dave Matthews) with a prison record.

Director Damien O'Donnell crafts this well-acted, funny, moving story that speaks to people's loneliness and the need to connect. This film is great for kids and adults alike.