A Dog Named Gucci

When recommending this to friends -- and some of these friends, mind you, are HORROR movie fanatics -- were to SCARED to see this film. "The thought of animal abuse is just to scary," they said.

And they are right. Animal abuse is scary.

But if you feel a pang in your heart at the thought of it, then you don't let fear deter you. This film is actually a beautiful exposure of many cases of animal abuse that will both, educate and enthrall you with it's overall message.

Gormon Bechard is known for his rock and music documentaries and I think he can add "A Dog Named Gucci" to that category. Gucci is a rock star in his own right. He gained notoriety in his community, had hordes of fans, was featured talk shows, newscasts, and even in book signings, and best of all -- he and his owner, Doug James, changed legislation in their state and sent ripple effects into our country and won the hearts of millions.

I am positive after this movie is over you will love Gucci too...just keep the tissues handy (you will both cry sad and happy tears).

A Dog Named Gucci was a STELLAR film. Contrary to what one may imagine it to be, it was not a movie just flooding you with sob stories of animal abuse, leaving you feeling angry and hopeless. This film did a fantastic job offering solutions, and depicting actions that have been taken by individual average citizens to make crucial improvements in animal cruelty legislation (or lack there of). This film reminds viewers why they should not ignore animal cruelty cases and feel hopeless, that they are not powerless, that they can make an imperative difference in the lives of suffering animals if they pay attention and do something. The film illustrates several things that people can choose to do, that are virtually effortless, and have proved to be the catalyst in creating laws to protect animals from suffering, torture, neglect and abuse nationwide. I hope people give this film a shot! It is ultimately very positive and inspiring!

I had the pleasure of seeing this movie last night in Mobile, AL. In the world of rescue, those of us who volunteer our time are not unfamiliar with horrific animal abuse situations. Many of us have had hands-on experience in the aftermath of these types of cases. However, for Gucci, Shauna and Doug, this awful, unthinkable situation was miraculously used for the future good of other animals. Sadly, it takes heartache and tragedy to inspire a movement of this magnitude, and we should learn from this to be the voice, stand for what we know is right and not back down, no matter what! Thank you for a wonderful documentary, highlighting the need for stronger animal welfare laws.

"A Dog Named Gucci" left many in tears with its poignant story. But to the filmmaker's credit, it was far from manipulating. Director Gorman Bechard was also one that was more interested in an awareness campaign rather than taking the easy route of inflammatory cinema. The "Gucci Bill" changed the laws in Alabama turning animal cruelty into a felony, and starting a wondrous domino effect throughout the nation. Gucci was a ten week old puppy that was hung by its neck, beaten repeatedly and then set afire. Somehow this pup survived, and his savior and new owner, Doug James, fought not only for his life, but for all other animals in his state.

Where many could have focused on the cruelty and the perpetrator, Bechard chooses to highlight the fight against such viciousness, the happiness and companionship that blossoms, and the bureaucratic struggles to achieve what is right. It's a wonderful and beautiful testament to Gucci, his owner, and all other animals and the people that care for them. If all that was not enough, Bechard encourages us to stay through the entire credits delivering absorbing anecdotes, information on how to combat animal cruelty, and an absolutely compassionate song that makes one want to go out and purchase it immediately.

This review is taken in part from my article, "Highlights from the 15th Annual Phoenix Film Festival" at The Movie Guys.

Saw a screening at the Phx Film Fest. As a dog owner/lover, I found this film eye-opening about the cruelty perpetrated upon the animals that have been our unflinching companions for generations, as well as the brave people taking steps to change legislation. However, to see this only as a commentary on animal abuse is to sell the film short. Abusing pets (or any creature) bespeaks a certain level of instability, or at least a severe lack of empathy. The film estimates that there are one MILLION cases of animal abuse in this country every year. Not isolated cases, but a significant number of people torturing their animals - not just in momentary anger, but also in prolonged cases of neglect - a symptom of something more systemic about why the PEOPLE in our society act out with such mindless cruelty. While the causes are likely varied, I might start by looking at the undue stresses we inflict upon our citizens by not providing equal access to social services and health care; not paying a living wage; and not providing a quality education; just to name a few. Concentrating on making life more humane for HUMANS and animals alike, rather than simply stiffening jail sentences may be our better choice in reducing cruelty in all its forms. Great film - don't miss it!