Why Hollywood Loves Redeeming Male Characters With a Dog (Guest Blog)

One of the undeniable stars of “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” is named neither DiCaprio nor Pitt, but rather Brandy. She’s the pitbull terrier who kicks ass when it matters, and is otherwise patient and obedient. Most important, she adds a sweetly human counterpoint to her owner’s occasionally temperamental ways. Quentin Tarantino’s movie is retro, so the concept of a helpful and heroic dog is fitting. Let’s face it: Brandy’s obedience to a male has a lot of company on screens past… and present. “The Art of Racing in the Rain” opens Friday, featuring “This Is Us” star Milo Ventimiglia (who, ironically, dies in that series trying to save his dog) as a racecar driver whose ups and downs are narrated by his canine companion (voiced by Kevin Costner). The film’s ads read, “From the studio that brought you ‘Marley and Me.'” Yep, there is another one primarily about a guy and his pooch. Of course, we know about “man’s best friend,” but think about it: “Old Yeller,” “Travels With Charley,” “Call of the Wild,” “Chips the War Dog,” “All Creatures Great and Small” and “Lassie” come to mind, all featuring boys or men deeply affected by canine companions....