The Dogwalker

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.

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 an amazing and touching film. You don't even have to be a dog lover to enjoy it! Although the title may lead you to think that it's merely a film about dogs, it's about so much more. This film explores an array of important issues such as cancer and domestic abuse powerfully, but without being preachy or heavy handed.

Jacques Thelemaque writes and directs with honesty and grace, and the performances by Diane Gaidry and Pamela Gordon are authentic and full of real human emotion, which seems to be missing from most independent films these days. This is the kind of independent film that deserves your support, go see it and I guarantee you will not be disappointed!

I saw this at the Santa Fe Film Festival while volunteering, and I'm really glad I stayed and watched it! I really like the idea of dark, tarnished characters and Diane Gaidry's portrayal of a women trying to leave her past behind and start fresh was very compelling. She does find redemption in a very non-trivial way

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!