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A Heartfelt Homage to Canine Companions

TV SERIES REVIEW
Dog Spelled Backwards

     

Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 20m
Director(s): Richie ‘Abstrak’ Soto
Where To Watch: premiering at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival, www.slamdance.com or for more information, visit www.trainingwithtim.net


RAVING REVIEW: DOG SPELLED BACKWARDS is a docuseries that blends emotional depth with a captivating narrative. Richie Soto directed and focused on Tim Almeida, whose eclectic background from music to martial arts informs his unique perspective on the bonds between humans and dogs. With Soto's directorial focus, this series offers a profound exploration of the often-overlooked lives of shelter dogs. Although the film provides a different type of story than we’re used to, the series gives you a deeper look into the changes that can be made individually..


Almeida brings a fresh eye to the world of animal welfare. The series highlights shelter workers' tireless efforts and dedication to rehabilitating dogs for adoption, resonating with viewers beyond the usual documentary fare. It's a narrative that's as educational as it is emotionally engaging, offering new insights into the human-animal connection. I think it’s an exciting way to tell a story with an ongoing evolution.

Soto's background in breakdancing and art infuses the series with a unique visual rhythm, elevating DOG SPELLED BACKWARDS from a standard documentary to a visually striking, poetically charged experience. His innovative blending of dance and documentary elements creates engaging, captivating, inspiring storytelling.

Central to DOG SPELLED BACKWARDS is its exploration of the transformative impact of dogs on human lives. It looks into the emotional and psychological benefits of these relationships, shedding light on mental health advantages and advocating for systemic changes in the shelter system. The series acts as a launchpad for Almeida's "Shelter to Shelter" campaign, which focuses on raising awareness about shelter dogs' adaptability and training needs.

Almeida's dog trainer expertise helps portray this life about shelters. The series presents an unflinching look at the challenges faced by both the humans and animals involved in the story, balancing the harsh realities with moments of triumph and hope. This balanced view adds a depth of realism to the series, providing an enlightening and heartwarming glimpse into the world of dog shelters.

The collaboration between Almeida and Soto culminates in a series that transcends the boundaries of traditional filmmaking. Their joint effort results in a story that's both educational and profoundly moving, showcasing their commitment to storytelling with purpose and passion. There’s something to be said for a 20-minute episode that can move you, make you think, and give you hope for the future.

DOG SPELLED BACKWARDS will resonate with a broad audience, not just documentary buffs or animal enthusiasts. Its premiere at the Slamdance Film Festival is set to be a significant event, bringing attention to the efforts to improve the lives of shelter dogs. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the powerful bond between humans and dogs and the art of storytelling that bridges emotional depth with real-world issues. I’m excited to see where this story goes in the future and the changes that come from it.

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[photo courtesy of A DOG NAMED DOUGIE PRODUCTIONS]

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Chris Jones
Entertainment Editor

Chris Jones is the Mail Entertainment Editor covering Movies and Television topics. He is from Washington, Illinois, and is the owner, writer, and editor of Overly Honest Reviews.