csprague
Posts 216
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9/6/2007 9:46 AM
posted awhile ago
Sun Dogs
Sun Dogs From the sun-kissed beaches and tropical paradise of Jamaica comes a story of second chances. Rescued from the mean streets and animal shelters of Kingston, 12 stray dogs are trained to be the stars of Jamaica’s first dog sled racing team. The crew, spearheaded by pop superstar Jimmy Buffett, brings the unlikely meeting of a traditionally snow-bound sport to the sand and surf. But it is not just the dogs that are given a second chance. The team’s dog mushers are given the opportunity of a lifetime as they cultivate their love of animals while receiving an education and traveling the world. Together this motley, mutt-ley crew is winning hearts AND winning races. Mush Mon!
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indieabby88
Posts 281
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9/20/2007 6:39 PM
posted awhile ago
Re:Sun Dogs
After the successful formation of the Jamaican bobsledding team in 1988 and 1992, it only makes sense that the land of sun and sand should turn its attentions to snow once more when it came time to find a new way to give the country a morale boost. This time, however, the Jamaicans are using a different kind of sled: one pulled by dogs. "Sun Dogs" is director Andrea Stewart's attempt at following the team's development, through successes and trials, and also an interesting look at Jamaica from a non-tourism perspective. While the story is inspiring, and the doggies are downright adorable, I found the description of Jamaica's economic troubles to be one of the film's more interesting points. Despite the tourism and cultural richness of "brand Jamaica," as it's called by one or two of the experts interviewed, there is plenty of poverty in the country, and the government is so deeply in debt that, we are told, they would have to borrow money to fix a pothole. In the midst of all this is the Jamaica Dogsled Team, run out of a tourist ranch and bankrolled, in part, by rock star Jimmy Buffett. The dogs come from the local humane society, and are raised and trained on the ranch. It's great to watch the interactions between Devon and Newton, the team's mushers, and their dogs. It's clear they really care about the animals. The people and relationships shown in "Sun Dogs" are so endearing, it's easy to care about the film's subjects. There are a few scenes, especially a turning point that I wouldn't want to ruin, that are downright heartbreaking. But the film does end on a hopeful, inspiring note. It's basically just good, lighthearted fun and a good movie for anyone who loves animals, sports or underdog (no pun intended) stories.
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