Movie Title: Hachi: A Dog's Tale
Director: Lasse Hallström
Writer: Stephen P. Lindsey
Starring: Richard Gere, Joan Allen, Erick Avari, Jason Alexander, Sarah Roemer, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Robbie Collier Sublett, Davenia McFadden, Kevin DeCoste, Tora Hallström
Review: Young Ronnie (Kevin DeCoste) reveals to his classmates that his personal hero is a dog named Hachi. Ribbed by his fellow pupils, Ronnie goes on to tell the remarkable story of his grandfather, Professor Parker Wilson (Richard Gere), and his friendship with the dog.
Cue the waterworks! Step right up for this sad, yet beautiful tale of a man and man's best friend. I actually watched this film on a shuttle bus in Mexico. On our five-hour trek to Puerto Vallarta, there were two types of people: Those asleep, and those bawling by the end of this movie.
Hachi: A Dog's Tale is based on the true story of an Akita so devoted to his master that he waited for him each day at a Tokyo train station. This film takes place in Rhode Island rather than Japan, but the general idea is the same. Richard Gere plays Parker Wilson, a professor at a local university who finds a stranded Akita puppy. The two build a wonderful bond that at times drives a wedge between Parker and his wife, Cate (Joan Allen). Over time, as is the case with most lovable canines, Hachi begins to grow on Cate and became an invaluable member of the family. I won't divulge any information about what happens next, but through Hachi's daily travels to and from the train station, he begins to become a bit of a local legend. All of the townspeople get to know him, handing out snacks and pets each day; all forming their own bond with Hachi in their own special way.
This movie was a beautifully told story of friendship. But I would be remiss if I didn't at least acknowledge the fact that it will make you cry. Seriously, if this movie doesn't make you cry then you might need to go to the doctor to make sure your ticker is working properly. At the end of the day, I mostly enjoyed this film, and it most certainly helped pass the time on that cross-country Mexican excursion. I recommend it to those who enjoy these lovely, sappy dog films. For me personally, it's one and done. My heart can't take the anguish!
Fun Fact: On May 19, 2012, a bronze statue of the Japanese dog Hachiko was unveiled at the train depot at Woonsocket Depot Square where the film was shot. It is an exact replica of the bronze statue of Hachiko which resides in front of Shibuya Station in Japan.