Mary Allen
Introduction: The Dog in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a 2019 movie directed by Quentin Tarantino, set in the late 1960s. The film tells the story of Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio), a fading actor, and his stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt), as they navigate the changing Hollywood scene. While the movie centers around the main characters, it also features a furry companion that caught the attention of many viewers. The dog in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a key element of the movie, bringing a sense of innocence and loyalty to the plot.
The Role of the Dog in the Movie
The dog in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is owned by Rick Dalton’s neighbor, Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie), and her husband Roman Polanski (Rafal Zawierucha). The dog, named Brandy, is a constant presence in the movie, accompanying Tate on her errands and providing comic relief in some of the tensest scenes. The dog’s role in the movie is not just decorative; she also plays a crucial part in the climax of the story, defending her owner and helping to turn the tables on the intruders.
The Search for the Dog’s Breed
The breed of the dog in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood was a topic of interest for many viewers. The movie’s animal handler, Mike Alexander, revealed that the production team had specific requirements when it came to finding the right dog for the role. They were looking for a breed that was not too big or too small, and that had a certain look and temperament. After considering various options, they settled on a pit bull terrier mix, which they found at a local animal shelter. The dog had a calm and friendly disposition, which made her perfect for the role.
The Dog’s Physical Characteristics
Brandy, the dog in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, is a pit bull terrier mix with a brindle coat. She has a muscular build and stands at just over knee-height. Her ears are floppy, and she has a distinctive white patch on her chest. The dog’s physical appearance was a deliberate choice, as it was meant to reflect the time period in which the movie is set. Pit bulls were a common breed in the 1960s, and their appearance has changed over the years due to selective breeding.
The Dog’s Temperament and Personality
Brandy’s temperament and personality were crucial to her success in the movie. The dog had to be comfortable on set, around people and other animals, and able to perform the required actions. Mike Alexander and his team spent several weeks training Brandy, helping her to become familiar with the actors and the set. The dog’s calm and friendly nature made her easy to work with, and she quickly became a favorite among the cast and crew.
The Dog’s Training for the Movie
The dog in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood had to perform several actions in the movie, including walking on a leash, barking, and attacking an intruder. Mike Alexander and his team used positive reinforcement training methods to teach Brandy these behaviors. They also worked on socializing the dog and getting her used to the sights and sounds of a movie set. The training process was a collaborative effort between the animal handler, the production team, and the actors.
The Dog’s Handler on Set
Mike Alexander was the animal handler for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, responsible for the care and training of Brandy. Alexander is one of Hollywood’s most experienced animal trainers, having worked on movies such as The Hangover and John Wick. He and his team spent long hours on set, ensuring that the dog was comfortable and well-cared for. Alexander was also on hand to supervise the dog’s actions during filming, making sure that she was safe and happy.
The Dog’s Contribution to the Movie’s Success
The dog in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood played a significant part in the movie’s success. Brandy brought a sense of warmth and humor to the story, and her loyalty and bravery in the final scenes were heartwarming. The dog’s performance was widely praised by critics and audiences alike, with many viewers commenting on how much they enjoyed watching her on screen. Brandy’s role in the movie was also a testament to the importance of animal actors in modern cinema.
The Dog’s Popularity Among Fans
The dog in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood quickly became a fan favorite, with many viewers taking to social media to express their love for Brandy. The dog’s cute and friendly appearance, combined with her loyal and brave personality, made her a hit with audiences. Brandy even has her own Instagram account, with over 16,000 followers, where fans can see pictures of her on set and in real life.
The Impact of the Movie on the Breed
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood has had a positive impact on the pit bull terrier breed. The movie showcased Brandy’s friendly and loyal nature, challenging the negative stereotypes that often surround pit bulls. Many viewers were impressed by the dog’s performance and were inspired to adopt a pit bull of their own. The movie also highlighted the importance of adopting animals from shelters, as Brandy was a rescue dog herself.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Dog
The dog in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Brandy, was a key element of the movie’s success. Her friendly and loyal personality, combined with her cute and distinctive appearance, made her a fan favorite. The dog’s performance in the movie challenged negative stereotypes about pit bulls and highlighted the importance of adopting animals from shelters. Brandy’s legacy lives on, inspiring viewers to adopt rescue dogs and appreciate the role that animal actors play in modern cinema.
References and Further Reading
- "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’s animal trainer reveals how he found the perfect dog for the movie" by Rachel Hosie, Insider, August 2019.
- "Brandy the Pit Bull from Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" by Pit Bull Happenings Rescue, August 2019.
- "Brandy the Pit Bull from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a hit" by Associated Press, YouTube, August 2019.
- "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood dog Brandy has an Instagram account and it’s the cutest thing ever" by Meaghan Wray, Global News, August 2019.