The Hermit and His Dog

When I saw there was a dog in this movie I almost didn't watch. Since watching Old Yeller, back in the 50s - and having Disney rip my heart out, I've shied away from flicks that might have somebody's best-friend dog killed.


******* spoilers **********




But, I decided to let the movie play in the background and saw that the dog did not meet a violent end, but instead an end that might more logically also be met by Crusoe - whether it be an illness / infection or old age.

For a lot of us, our pet is our only companion - as many of us live solitary lives.

So, for me at least, the scene where it slowly occurred to Crusoe that his only friend and companion was in trouble (looking up at him with those sad eyes) - was powerful and well played (something that many of us can relate to). As was the scene where worry turned to a quiet panic and sense of helplessness when all he could do was turn to prayer. And then all the emotion of burial, saying goodbye and the dark days of grief that follow.

Yes, lot's of fault can be found with this movie, but in my opinion this - story within a story - was very well told.