GFF 2012: Red Dog

Red Dog, based on Nancy Gillespie’s book of the same name charting the impact of a legendary mutt on the lives of assorted roughnecks in a Western Australian mining town during the 70s, is a cute fable also packing a fair old emotional punch. Set in the isolated port of Dampier, there is a dusty, sweaty aesthetic in keeping with the blue-collar resonance of the tale; the blazing sun and stark landscape creating an otherworldly atmosphere in which myths such as these thrive. When Red appears in Dampier he meanders through the crowd, offering comfort and companionship to the often lonely drifters making up the population, until eventually falling under the permanent care of bus driver John (Josh Lucas). Continuing a strong presence in the community, the unifying effect Red has on these disparate souls is touching, with that delightful absurdity the Aussies do so well ensuring a lightness of touch that makes the weightier elements more palatable. A charming wee film. [Chris Fyvie]