Mary Allen
Introduction: The Mountain Between Us
"The Mountain Between Us" is a 2017 American survival drama film directed by Hany Abu-Assad. Based on the novel of the same name by Charles Martin, the movie tells the story of two strangers, a journalist and a surgeon, who become stranded in the wilderness of the High Uintas Wilderness in Utah, after their small plane crashes. They must work together to survive and find their way back to civilization.
The Dog’s Role in the Movie
One of the most memorable characters in "The Mountain Between Us" is a dog named "Dog," who also becomes stranded with the two human protagonists. Dog plays an important role in the movie, not only as a source of comfort and companionship for the characters, but also as a key factor in their survival. Dog helps them find shelter, food, and water, and alert them to danger.
Identifying the Breed
The breed of dog that appears in "The Mountain Between Us" is a Labrador Retriever. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world, known for their friendly and outgoing personality, intelligence, trainability, and loyalty. They are often used as service dogs, hunting dogs, and search and rescue dogs, due to their strong work ethic and excellent sense of smell.
Physical Characteristics of the Dog
Labrador Retrievers are medium to large-sized dogs, with a muscular and athletic build. They have short, dense coats that come in three colors: black, yellow, and chocolate. They have a broad head, a strong jaw, and friendly, expressive eyes that convey intelligence and kindness. They are built for endurance and can swim long distances, thanks to their webbed feet.
Behavioral Characteristics of the Dog
Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personality. They are affectionate, loyal, and eager to please, making them great family pets. They are also highly intelligent and curious, and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to be happy and healthy. They are also known for their love of food, which can make them prone to obesity if not properly exercised and fed.
The Dog’s Training for the Movie
To prepare for his role in "The Mountain Between Us," the Labrador Retriever who played Dog underwent extensive training to learn the behaviors necessary for the movie. He was trained to run, jump, swim, and retrieve objects, as well as to respond to voice and hand signals. He was also trained to remain calm and focused in different environmental conditions, such as snow and wind.
The Dog’s Interaction with the Actors
The Labrador Retriever who played Dog in "The Mountain Between Us" had a strong bond with the human actors, Kate Winslet and Idris Elba. The actors praised the dog’s professionalism and talent, and said that working with him was a joy. They also appreciated the emotional support that the dog provided on set, especially during the more challenging scenes.
The Dog’s Importance to the Plot
Dog is an integral part of the plot of "The Mountain Between Us," as he helps the characters survive in the wilderness and find their way back to civilization. His presence also adds a sense of warmth and humanity to the story, as he becomes a beloved companion to the two humans and a symbol of hope in the midst of adversity.
The Dog’s Real-Life Counterpart
The Labrador Retriever who played Dog in "The Mountain Between Us" is a trained actor named "Boone." Boone is owned by Clint Rowe, a professional dog trainer from Utah. Boone has appeared in several movies and TV shows, including "Westworld," "The Revenant," and "Homeland."
The Impact of the Movie on the Breed
"The Mountain Between Us" has had a positive impact on the popularity of Labrador Retrievers, as viewers were charmed by the dog’s performance and personality in the movie. However, it is important to remember that owning a dog is a serious responsibility, and that choosing the right breed for your lifestyle and personality is crucial for both the dog’s well-being and your own.
Conclusion: The Movie’s Legacy
"The Mountain Between Us" is a memorable and inspiring movie that tells a story of survival, love, and resilience. Dog, the Labrador Retriever who played an important role in the movie, is a beloved character who adds warmth and heart to the story. His performance is a testament to the talent and dedication of animal actors and their trainers.
Further Reading and Resources
- "The Mountain Between Us" novel by Charles Martin
- "The Making of ‘The Mountain Between Us’" documentary
- "Labrador Retrievers for Dummies" book by Joel Walton and Eve Adamson
- "The Labrador Retriever Handbook" book by Audrey Pavia and Liz Palika
- "Labrador Retriever Club" website, https://www.thelabradorclub.com/