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DOG JACK is a bit different from a few of the works made previously on this important subject. 14-year-old Jed is really a runaway slave. Hes got a loyal dog named, Jack, who has a patch over his left eye, resembling 1 of those wonderful canines that often seemed to be around the Our Gang children in the thirties. This gives the film a shimmering, childlike element it subconsciously reminds me of Mark Twains Huck Finn, but also gives the story humanity and compassion. Hey, who doesnt like dogs? Now, I realize that some may well contemplate the dog character to be a little overly cute, but this was written originally as childrens literature; an element of cuteness was needed to get kids to discover about the Civil War and, in particular, the horrible nightmare of slavery; somewhat like a spoon full of sugar makes the medicine go down. Well, somewhat. Its a nice introduction to this necessary subject.
Some of the dialogue introduces fascinating concepts for younger folks (of all ages) to believe about after the film, and presumably the book preceding it.
What price does man pay for freedom,the taking of a life?
Anyone who thinks war is really a clear-cut thing, dont believe it
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