Review of Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009) by Ryan O — 21 Dec 2010

Wow! What a wonderful family film about a dog and his loyalty to his master. Based on a true story, Hachiko: A Dog's Story is the tale of a college professor who picks up an abandoned dog at a train station, takes him home. Each day thereafter, Hachiko sees his master off to work at the train station and patiently waits for him to return at the end of each day. Until, the professor doesn't return. For over 10 years thereafter, Hachiko returns to the train station each day, waiting for his master. This is a story of loyalty, devotion and love between a man and his dog.

This is a warm-hearted drama, that is a film for every member of the family. Dog-lovers will especially be a drawn to the story - if you are one, you know the bond more so than those that don't.

I'm not sure why this film didn't find a wider audience. I can honestly say, I never heard of it, however, through the Netfilx recommendation feature, I found it. It's a small story with huge charm and charisma.

With fantastic performances and an outstanding musical score, this is one that shouldn't be missed. The cinematography is also great, at times, showing the scene from a dog's view point of the world. A great film. The stand-out performance is the dog that portrays Hachiko -- this is her movie.

If you're looking for that great family film for family movie night and want to gear away from the usual standards, check this one out. There is no violence, no curse words, nothing that is objectionable - my only caution is that you may have to address the issue of life and death with younger viewers.

Overall, a great film. I loved it, and i'll admit, it did pull at the heart strings a bit.