⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐ 4

A Brad Pitt vehicle that chronicles the relationship between James (Pitt), an ex-military veteran, and his dog. Together they have faced wars and conflict, and now retired, they crave a quiet life in Alaska during this wilderness drama. After James has a health emergency that causes their light aircraft to crash, they are forced to survive and trek through the harsh Alaskan wilderness to safety.

It’s an engaging and unusual film that highlights the grueling challenges of survival. Overall, I enjoyed it, though it does have a few unbelievable elements. Pitt is excellent at capturing the essence of his character, even if the script occasionally pushes him into superhuman territory. Given that James suffered a heart attack early in the film, some of the physical feats he pulls off (despite being ex-military) feels a little unrealistic with no medical help . The narrative cleverly fills in blanks through flashbacks, and a brief appearance by J.K. Simmons helps flesh out the backstory and motivations.

Visually, the films story is based in Alaska and amazing cinematic landscapes are caught on camera, though filmed in New Zealand. During the journey, they encounter various wild creatures, supported by fairly solid CGI. With a small cast, just three actors and the dog (played by four canine stand-ins), the film delivers plenty of drama to keep you hooked from start to finish. It also has to be said: the animal trainers (dogs) did a phenomenal job.

I would recommend viewing.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐ 4

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Trailer, synopsis and score breakdown below.

After a medical emergency forces a retired Special Forces veteran and his traumatized combat dog to crash their seaplane deep in the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness, the pair must rely on their military training and an unbreakable bond to endure a brutal 58-mile trek back to civilization while facing harsh elements, treacherous terrain, and dangerous wildlife.

Online synopsis 

Film Rating

Music/Sound

3 out of 5

Story/plot

3 out of 5

Acting/Performances

4 out of 5

Overall

4 out of 5

Certification: 12A
Running time: 101 minutes
Screening type: 2D