Always Faithful

Always Faithful is a 2012 documentary directed by Harris Done. The film explores the intimate bond between military working dogs and their handlers- showcasing a realm of military activity that is often overlooked, but is of immense importance in the field. Always Faithful is centered around five key personalities- Mike Dowling, Alexandria Lopez, and Bryan Manthey who are handlers, and the two dogs, Rex and Topper.

The film provides a deep dive into the various facets of this extraordinary partnership and is especially successful in alleviating uninitiated viewers' curiosities about this specialized dimension of military life. Not only does it build a cinematic narrative around the exceptional camaraderie between soldiers and their sniffing dogs, but it also provides a profound commentary on the various aspects surrounding the handlers and their extraordinary canine companions, such as their training, their jobs, and their mutual loyalty.

Mike Dowling, one of the handlers the movie focuses on, has a unique experience with his dog, Rex. They served together in Iraq and Mike provides first-hand insight into the bond he and Rex developed during their service. One of the key themes that permeate the story is how dogs like Rex are not only efficient at detecting explosives, but also become an emotional anchor for their handlers during the harsh realities of war.

Further in the film, viewers are introduced to Alexandria Lopez and Bryan Manthey. Alexandria's narrative focuses on how she’s balancing her love and duty towards her dog, along with her regular responsibilities. Bryan's story explores a gamut of emotions, including anxiety, hope, and passion, through his interactions with his canine companion.

Always Faithful offers an intimate peek into the rigorous training that both the handlers and the dogs undergo. It details how, from puppyhood, the dogs are trained to perform specific tasks using intuitive and innovative learning methods. It also delves into the various wars that the dogs and their handlers have been a part of, the challenges they face, and their experiences in perilous situations.

Any discussion about war is invariably laced with the tragic implications it has on its participants. Always Faithful doesn’t shy away from this aspect as well and discusses how these soldiers and canines are often affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This critically acclaimed documentary is a poignant ode to the unshakeable bond that transcends the human-animal divide, setting up an emotional narrative that may move even the most stoic of viewers to tears.

In his directorial endeavor, Harris Done captivates his audience by highlighting the intensity of the relationships, the gravity of the dangerous situations they face, and the immense responsibilities that the dogs and their handlers shoulder. The filmmakers use powerful cinematography to showcase the training the handlers and their dogs undergo and their engagement in simulated combat scenarios. They effectively employ resources such as historical footage and interviews with the handlers to provide a comprehensive presentation of this lesser-known aspect of military life.

The documentary ultimately unfolds a tapestry of courage, discomfort, anxiety, and most importantly, indomitable loyalty. The film impeccably encapsulates the attachment that ensues between the handlers and dogs that translates into a profound bond that remains, as the title suggests, always faithful.

Hence, this documentary is not only an extraordinary tribute to the military working dogs and their handlers but also a thought-provoking commentary on the emotional repercussions of war. Always Faithful is a heart-wrenching and inspiring story of friendship, trust, and the resilient human spirit and is sure to leave viewers with a deep appreciation for these unsung heroes and their lovable canine companions.