Animals Teach, Comfort, and Shape Lives

Read Time:4 Minute, 5 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Mt Pet and Me (M'n Beessie en ik)
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 16m
Director(s): Johan Kramer
Language: Dutch with English subtitles
Where To Watch: premiering via VOD, leading digital platforms & SVOD service Film Movement Plus on June 28, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: As director Johan Kramer takes us on a journey through the Dutch countryside in MY PET AND ME, he uncovers the intricate connections that form between humans and their animal counterparts. This documentary goes beyond simple pet profiles to tackle a narrative that delves deep into the emotional symbiosis between people and their pets. Each story arc captures these animals' profound companionship and emotional support, spotlighting the highs and lows of such relationships.

The film opens with the touching story of Kim and her pet, Frans Bacon, whose name playfully references the celebrated artist. Frans isn't just a comforting presence; he's a critical emotional anchor in Kim's life, particularly following significant personal upheavals. Their interactions, rich in affection and support, are a testament to the profound bonds that can exist between humans and animals.

Lana's tale with her cat, Zappa, changes from viral internet sensation to high-fashion icon, underscoring pets' evolving role in our lives. As Lana steps into the new challenges of motherhood, Zappa's story highlights the unique place pets hold in our personal stories, influencing and shaping our life paths in unexpected ways.

Further enriching the narrative is Vico, a hairdresser whose life is entangled with his hairless Sphinx cats. This segment explores the adjustments and challenges faced when pets are central to one’s domestic life, offering a glimpse into the personal sacrifices and lifestyle changes pet owners often undergo.

In a more serene vein, Runa’s quiet companionship with her albino agate snail, Nokia, offers a reflective pause in the film. Through tranquil scenes, MY PET AND ME shows how Nokia introduces a new, slower pace to Runa’s life, emphasizing the therapeutic and meditative qualities that pets can bring into our hurried lives.

MY PET AND ME breaks conventional documentary molds with its structure, opting for interlinked vignettes that showcase how pets enrich their owners' lives across various spectrums—from emotional support to constant joy.

Kramer also raises probing philosophical questions about the roles our animal companions play. Beyond pets, these creatures fill significant emotional voids and create relationships grounded in mutual respect and understanding. The candid interviews and genuine interactions captured on film encourage viewers to consider the emotional exchanges that underpin these human-animal bonds.

MY PET AND ME culminates as a heartfelt homage to the ties that bind humans and animals. It’s a film that sparks laughter and tears, prompting a thoughtful reassessment of pets' roles in our lives. The stories affirm that the relationship with our pets is deeply reciprocal, highlighting the emotional depth and true companionship that blooms when we open our homes—and hearts—to them.

This documentary is a must-watch for anyone touched by the bond shared with a pet or curious about the profound emotional connections that can be forged across species. Crafted with a discerning eye and a tender narrative touch, MY PET AND ME resonates with all animal lovers, reminding us of the valuable emotional and psychological contributions pets make to our lives.

This is one of my favorite thoughts on animals' shorter lives!

“People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life — like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?”

“Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay for as long as we do.”

Six-year-old Shane Belker

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[photo courtesy of MNIBUS ENTERTAINMENT]

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