Brad Pitt as an actor is a bit of a throwback to the golden period of Hollywood, where charisma and glamour are part of the mystery of what makes someone a “star”. Whatever the qualities are Brad Pitt has it in abundance. He dominates the screen in director David Ayer’s gritty story of a former special forces soldier who finds himself trapped in the Alaskan wilderness with his combat dog.
Man and beast must brave the elements, landscape and wild animals in an effort to survive and reach civilisation. A pretty straightforward plot is enhanced by the relationship between Pitt and his German Shepherd and I defy any viewer to not shed a tear as the action unfolds.
To me it had echoes of the movies, My Dead Friend Zoe and Alpha, even if the storylines differ.
Its the emotional punch that elevates Heart of the Beast above normal survival action adventure movies and I found myself watching through misty tear filled eyes as the bond between man and dog grows with each danger filled escapade.
I am not going to expand on the plot as I don’t want to spoil the fun, but rest assured there are plenty of exciting adventure scenes for those who think Heart of the Beast is just another “animal romance” movie.
Even so, its the companionship that proves to be the most heartfelt aspect of the story as the two damaged protagonists lean on each other for support.
Which brings me to the other star of the movie. A New Zealand working line dog named “Uber” is the principal canine actor and he more than holds his own opposite superstar Pitt. Even if you were not a dog lover you would be hard pressed to find anyone, human or not, that you would prefer as a companion. You just can’t help falling in love with him.
The action scenes are muscular and riveting, especially a very realistic plane crash and wolf attack that are far superior to the bloated CGI special effects of other big budget movies. The photography and scenery are beautifully realised and the wilderness, in all its savage magnificence, is a character too.
Ultimately, Heart of the Beast is an old fashioned story that relies on the star power of Brad Pitt and his relationship with his dog. The film delivers both spectacularly well and really tugs at the heartstrings and delivers a powerful emotional punch.
Who doesn’t love a tearjerker, especially when its combined with great acting and strong action scenes.
Not to be missed!