Do you remember a time when if there was trouble at the old mill, that loveable little collie would run to your rescue in minutes? Now imagine that Lassie stumbled across a pint of Fosters, took a sip, and decided he wanted to do much more with his life.  Picture this and you’re someway to imaging what Red Dog is all about.

Recounted in flashback, and based on the novel of the same name by Louis De Bernieres (Captain Corelli’s Mandolin), Red Dog tells the story of a stray wondering dog who stumbles into a desolate Western Australia mining town.  However this is no ordinary dog.  He belongs to no-one, yet belongs to everyone, assumes he is entitled to certain human rights, and may just be the only one that can bring something special to the remote town.

Although adapted from Bernieres’ novel, Red Dog is also derived from a true story, and an Australian canine legend, however this is much more than a cheerful animal lover’s romp.  True the cute pup is the focal point, and has just about everything to keep it there including a fantastic nemesis in the guise of the malicious Red Cat, however the real stars of the film are the quirky offbeat characters, and more poignantly the wild, beautiful  landscape.  As Red Dog runs through the town, the cinematography is so breath-taking that the dry Australian wilderness clinging to his fur becomes increasingly tangible.

The cast full of recognisable faces including Josh Lucas (Sweet Home Alabama) and Noah Taylor (Tomb Raider) skilfully steer the audience through moments of hilarity and moments of heartbreak with the same gusto, but director Kriv Stenders is careful to never stray too far into either emotion.  Whether you’re a dog lover or not it’s hard not to be touched by this bittersweet comedy, so sit back open your heart and enjoy.