Dog Gone (Movie Review)

"Dog Gone" stars Rob Lowe as a businessman who joins forces with his son to track down a missing pooch on the Appalachian Trail. The film follows the real-life journey of father and son, John and Fielding Marshall, as they navigate the trials and tribulations of reuniting with their beloved pet. From heartwarming moments of dog-human bonding to challenges and humor along the way, this film is sure to tug at the heartstrings. Set against the stunning backdrop of Georgia, the movie captures the beauty and challenges of the trail, with a strong script, excellent direction, and a touching score by Emily Bear. With its blend of emotion, adventure, and humor, "Dog Gone" is the perfect movie for dog lovers and anyone who values the bonds of family.

Fielding, a college senior, turns to a local animal shelter to mend a broken heart and finds himself smitten by a gorgeous cream-colored pup whom he dubs Gonker. They spend a wonderful year together, until Fielding realizes that while his classmates have secured job prospects, he remains uncertain about his future. On the day of graduation, Fielding and Gonker oversleep and miss the ceremony, leading to Fielding's return to his hometown.

John is a sharp, focused, and sometimes sarcastic individual. He scoffs at Fielding's decision to drive six hours to attend graduation, saying "I'm sure it's worth the six-hour round trip just to see 4,000 strangers dressed in the same outfit." John is not interested in taking on the responsibility of caring for a pet and attempts to use a shock collar to restrict Gonker's movement. However, Fielding is persistent in keeping the beloved pup by his side.

Fielding is an avid yoga practitioner and enjoys exploring the great outdoors. He is often seen sporting shorts and a shell necklace. Despite his father's attempts to secure job interviews, Fielding declines the offers. However, overhearing his father's disappointment in him leaves Fielding feeling heartbroken. "I always knew he was disappointed in me, but this time he seemed embarrassed," he confesses. Despite facing some personal health issues, Fielding keeps them to himself, choosing not to share the information with anyone.

While on the Appalachian Trail, Fielding and his best friend Nate (played by Nick Peine of "A.P. Bio") lose track of Gonker after chasing after a fox. John, determined to bring the beloved pet back home, leaves everything behind to join the search. Fielding's mother, bitterness, sets up a control center at the house with fax machines, phone books, and a map connecting the search locations, all marked with red yarn. She also creates a "hero list" to boost morale and keep track of those aiding in the search. With time running out, the search for Gonker becomes critical as he only has 19 days left to receive his Addison's disease medication.

The film, while featuring touching human and canine moments, is primarily centered around the relationships and interactions between people during the search for Gonker. For Fielding's mother, Ginny, finding the lost pup serves as a way to heal the wounds from losing her childhood dog. The journey allows Fielding and his father, John, to better understand each other and build a relationship they never had. They are aided by a cast of unlikely characters along the way, including a gas station attendant, bikers, a reporter, and many dog lovers. The search highlights the power of hard work, commitment, and family support, and John's presence teaches Fielding about the meaning of responsibility and fatherly love. "Your love for Gonker drives your concern for his safety. That's why I worry about you," says John.

Lowe, as the producer, shines in his role as a loving father who may not fully comprehend his son. He adds a touch of dry humor, especially when referencing the ancient Silk Road caravans or reminding Fielding of Caesar's unwritten rule. Williams imbues the character of "analog" Ginny with warmth as she navigates new technology to aid in the search. Berchtold's portrayal highlights the importance of both sound decision making and unconditional love from friends, both human and animal.