About War Dog: A Soldier's Best Friend (HBO)

Directed by Deborah Scranton and produced by Channing Tatum, "War Dog: A Soldier's Best Friend" is a moving tribute to military service dogs and their handlers. This 2017 documentary film sheds light on the incomparable bond that exists between soldiers and these canine warriors. The documentary tells the extraordinary tales of three elite dogs and the soldiers who served alongside them.

Making / Production

The film was produced by Ten Thirty One Productions and Free Association Productions for HBO. Throughout the process, the production aimed to explore the deep bond between military dogs and their handlers. Scranton's distinct documentary style allowed her to capture the compelling and often heart-wrenching stories of these war dogs and their handlers.

Actors

• Trent McDonald: He plays himself in the film. McDonald was a former handler for Layka, the war dog, and he delivers a heartwarming performance by recounting his wartime experiences with his trusty companion.
• Dave Nielsen: He also plays himself, a former handler for another war dog, Pepper. Nielsen’s sincerity and emotional honesty offer a touching portrayal of the strength of the bond between the soldier and the dog.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Although not actors in the traditional sense, the dogs featured in the movie are all real military service dogs with impressive records.
• The documentary provides a unique perspective on the profound impact these dogs have on the lives of the soldiers they serve with.

Quotes

• "Don't pity a shelter dog. Adopt one."
• "Those on the front lines defend freedom where it is most at risk, the place where it is just an idea - a hope."

Music, Soundtrack

• The documentary utilises a contemporary score, subtly bolstering the emotional journey of its subjects without overwhelming the dialogue and ambient sound.

Please note that this format does not include the "Awards" section because this documentary film has not received any specific awards at the time of writing. Information could vary in the future.