Red Dog: True Blue – 60 Second Movie Review

AUDIENCE: Virtually, every Australian fell in love with Red Dog back in 2011. If you are still a fan of the little furry Aussie battler, Red Dog: True Blue is a sequel aimed squarely at you.

WHAT’S GOOD: Red Dog was a lovely little movie that had wide appeal, so plenty of families (not to mention dog lovers) will be happy about the idea of going for another cinema stroll with red. Three-year-old kelpie Phoenix is a top canine actor, ensuring there many moments of furry fun and crowd-pleasing tricks. Red Dog director Kriv Stenders also gathered up some fine Australian human talent, and the picturesque WA setting – and a rocking old-school soundtrack – will do your senses a favour.

WHAT’S NOT: Sadly, this prequel does struggle to have the same spark and heart as the original; it’s unlikely to have the same impact as Red Dog. The story feels like a real stretch and only seems to have been made up because a sequel had to be cranked out. What Mick and his dog Red get up isn’t terribly notable or special, and the inclusion of big dramatic moments in the second half are only so-so. Overall, Red Dog: True Blue is a slim follow-up to a charming original. And one more thing: why does a PG-rated movie created for families need to use the name “Jesus” as a swear word TWICE in the opening minutes?

SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING: Something to take away and discuss after True Blue is its depiction of a boy trying to find his way to being a man. Where does Mick find his values, beliefs, guidance and wisdom? Who is helping him, and how are they helping? What might you want to do the same – or differently – if Mick was your lad?

There is also a bit of time spent on-screen talking about aboriginal spirituality and traditional beliefs. Mick is intrigued by Dreamtime tales and gives them a lot of respect, particularly when events suggest “spiritual” forces are at work. The everyday way that these spiritual beliefs are raised and mulled over in Red Dog: True Blue might inspire any Christian viewers to think about how they discuss their beliefs with others. Can it be done in more of a normal, everyday way?

RATED: PG for Mild themes and coarse language.

RELEASE DATE: Boxing Day 2016

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