Heart of the Beast: A Review
By: Salisa Wellenreuther, Skyline Reporter
ALPINE – When retired Sergeant Major James Belmont (Brad Pitt) suffers a heart attack while flying a seaplane in the Alaskan wilderness, he and his best friend, a German-shepherd named Odin, become stranded. The pair must traverse a harsh environment, dangerous wildlife, and their own hidden pain to survive.
No offense to Brad Pitt, but the star of this movie was definitely Odin, James’s loyal friend with titanium teeth and a prosthetic leg, who served as his partner in the army. During their time in the Special Forces, Odin and James faced the most vicious horrors that mankind has to offer which plagued them with PTSD and nightmares, but they found solace and comfort in each other. This movie shows a love and bond so strong, not even the cruelty of nature could break it.
Four different German Shepherds played the lovable Odin. Six-year-old Uber and three of his sons helped bring the fierce canine to life. Additionally, Uber had a brief stint in the police academy before failing due to him being too friendly. Luckily, this allowed him to give movie-goers the joy of seeing him on the big screen.
On a more serious note, this movie sheds light on the toll combat takes on active-duty and retired soldiers. PTSD is extremely common for soldiers who have experienced combat, and it leaves them with lifelong pain etched in their minds. Losing fellow soldiers, having to kill or wound enemy soldiers, and being on high alert for long periods of time cause immense stress and trauma. James and Odin had spent so much of their lives fighting and, during this movie, they learned that they are not done fighting yet.
The Heart of the Beast is not the most groundbreaking film, and the CGI effects are less than realistic at times, but it is still entertaining and provides insight into veteran experiences. Additionally, adding a dog into the mix automatically makes this movie worth watching.
And for those who avoid films like this for fear of the furry friend’s fate, don’t worry, the dog survives this one.