A happy child is sent to a harsh institution for orphans where the headmaster dislikes her, but her hopes for a customary Christmas treat spark magic.

When a robot dog from the future pops up in their backyard on a mission to help them, 11-year-old James and his beloved golden retriever, Rex, learn that it is up to them to save the world from Dr. Apocalypse, an evil scientist, and his wily robotic Destructo-Cat.