10/10
Shepherd: The Story of a Jewish Dog Review
21 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
"Shepherd: The Story of a Jewish Dog" is a family adventure drama with the historical backdrop of WWII. The film follows the journey of Caleb, a German Shepherd who is taken from his family due to a Nazi ban on pets. He is then trained by the SS to attack Jewish prisoners. Eventually, Caleb is reunited with his former owner, Joshua, who is now a prisoner in the same camp. Together with other desperate prisoners, they plan a daring escape mission.

The film avoids excessive sentimentality and downplays the horrific imagery and gut-wrenching emotions usually seen in Holocaust-era films. It keeps the tension and terror within the PG range, making it very accessible for younger viewers to watch with older family members who will also find it compelling. The film manages to strike the right tone, delivering an honest but palatable history lesson about the Holocaust. The cute puppies serve as a lure for younger viewers, while the dog's sharp abilities make it a compelling addition to the cast. The film is nicely shot and rendered on a seemingly modest budget, with Hungary substituting for Germany.

"Shepherd: The Story of a Jewish Dog", directed and written by Lynn Roth, is emotionally engaging and worth watching. It offers a unique perspective on the Holocaust and highlights the bravery and resilience of those affected by it. The film's message is poignant, reminding us of the power of compassion, even in the darkest of times.
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