The Dogwalker

I looked at the ratings system and don't understand what kind of secret formula IMDb uses that works to the detriment of this film. Based on how people have rated it, it should be a much higher score.

I say this because I just saw the film and thought it was amazing! Saw it at a benefit screening in Santa Monica. I've never used IMDb before and the filmmaker, who was at the screening, asked us to post something here if we liked the film. So, I am. But also read the other comments/ratings.

Anyway, I also read a bad review in the L.A. Times that was totally hostile and completely at odds with what I, and my fellow audience members, saw. Everyone I talked to loved the film and felt it was rich, complex and deeply affecting. The review was shallow and pointless. Ignore it - and others like it - and see this film for yourself. If you do hate it, too, don't be afraid to say so here. But I'm betting most of you will feel just the opposite. I did, anyway.

Saw it last night and loved it. It was very simple with interesting characters, and it had a wonderful message about healing broken pasts. Great- even if you don't love dogs! So many times in film like this, it seems people over act. But Gordon and Gaidry are subtle with depth. Beautiful shots of LA and even a bit of ironic humor. I loved this film.

They had a Q&A at the screening I went to last night, it seemed like the entire audience really enjoyed it. The director, Jacques Thelemacque, and the actress, Diane Gaidry were both there. They were so very warm in person. Although the amount of love put into the film was obvious from the beginning, it was even more so after hearing them speak. I look forward to seeing more of their work!

This is a film that reminds us that what films are supposed to be about - compelling stories and characters. It didn't have a massive budget or a huge production. Certainly it could have been more 'polished' by Hollywood standards. But is that the point? Or is it the point that you go in and you forget about your own life for a couple of hours and get pulled into the lives of these two women? If it's the latter, then this film succeeds beautifully.

Fine performances from both human and canine and subtle, even-handed work from both the director and director of photography.

Please, go see this film. Not just to support independent cinema, but because you'll probably like it.

This is independent cinema at its best. The film follows a young woman who escapes her abusive boyfriend to find herself mugged, money less, and homeless, in LA. She wakes up in a dog park and is befriended by an older woman with a sketchy past. That begins the young woman's journey to find herself and the strength to stand up and face her fears. Jacques Thelemaque directs with a meditative simplicity that is hypnotic. This film is not only for dog owners, but anyone who is searching for something. Minus the car chases, and the typical Hollywood style sensationalism, this is a character driven story with a simplicity that reaches far beyond what's on the surface. The universe has a message for all of us, all we have to do is pay attention.

In the true spirit of independent film-making, writer/director Jacques Thelemaque and his wife/ partner, gifted actress Diane Gaidry, create a sensitive yet powerful film that is reminiscent of Cassavetes and Rowland collaborations in the past. The late Pamela Gordon also gives a stellar performance, as together this team puts a very truthful portrayal, a slice of real life up on the screen. Dogwalker is a touching story about healing old wounds and finding new friendship, love and hope in rebuilding one's life. Thelemaque directs with a master's touch, and his style reminds me of the best offerings from John Sayles. The fact that both Thelemaque & Gaidry are co-founders of Filmmakers Alliance in Los Angeles, and that that very community contributed immensely to making the film, sets them apart in the independent world as leaders who put their money where their heart is, and deliver the goods when they themselves are out in the field. To not see this accomplishment of theirs is to doubt the very foundation of independent film-making. And if you're a filmmaker, see this film and celebrate in their triumph, so you can be inspired by what's possible and aim high in your own aspirations.