Brad Pitt is back on the big screen, but this time he shares the spotlight with a co-star who steals every scene: a German Shepherd named Uber.
The Story
After a harrowing plane crash, Special Forces veteran James Belmont (Brad Pitt) and his combat dog, Odin, find themselves stranded deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Together, they must fight to survive against the elements.
Alaska… in New Zealand
Although the story takes place in the wild territory of Alaska, the movie was filmed in New Zealand. The team used visual effects to finish turning its landscapes into the frozen north.
The Real Star: Uber
Odin is played mainly by Uber, a German Shepherd from New Zealand. Before coming to the movies, he was a police dog and later a search and rescue dog, used to working from helicopters, boats and trucks. Animal trainer Andrew Simpson, who has worked on John Wick, Game of Thrones and The Revenant, found him and knew his experience was perfect for the film.
And here’s a detail I loved: David Ayer put Uber at number one on the daily call sheet, the spot usually held by the big star. Brad Pitt became his co-star.
A Four-Legged Team, a Family
Uber didn’t work alone: three of his sons, Seeka, Ryker and Hondo, also appear in the movie. It’s one of those stories that reminds you loyalty doesn’t need words.
Film Notes
Running time: 1 hour and 41 minutes
Genre: action, adventure, drama and thriller
Cast: Brad Pitt, J.K. Simmons, Justin Melnick and Shaun DeZern
The dogs: Uber, Seeka, Ryker and Hondo, all from New Zealand
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About the author: Patty Kralj has dedicated twenty years to what she loves most: writing about lifestyle. Having lived between Mexico and the United States, with a deep European sensibility, she created E Weekly News for one reason: to help you live better. Say hello here.
