Man’s best friend is no stranger to the silver screen, and Heart of the Beast offers up the next worthy entry in a genre that has captured audiences for decades. The film introduces us to James Belmont (Brad Pitt), a recently retired Green Beret who spent thirty years of his life in brutal combat service. Close by his side is his loyal German Shepherd, Odin (played by newcomer Uber), who served as Belmont’s combat scouting dog and is himself adjusting to post-military life alongside his partner. What’s intended to be a therapeutic bonding trip in the heart of the mountains turns treacherous, as Belmont and Odin once again find themselves relying on each other for survival. 

While the script from first-time feature writer Cameron Alexander hits many of the familiar beats one may have come to expect from a survival thriller, there is enough specificity to the characters to make it all feel memorable. Some of the best parts of the story come from the parallels we see between how these two veterans are dealing with their PTSD and attempting to forge ahead. There are no cheap attempts to anthropomorphise Odin; instead, Heart of the Beast offers a more grounded reflection on how humans and animals may have more in common than we allow ourselves to realize. The story is elevated by sharp direction from David Ayer (Suicide Squad, Fury), who is able to heighten the tension when it’s needed, and then seamlessly transition to letting the film sit in its quiet, contemplative moments that are the heartbeat of the film. My biggest critique would be Ayer’s navigation of the flashbacks from our main duo’s war days. They can feel a bit haphazardly placed, and while they provide important context on Belmont and Odin’s life, that information could have been revealed through their current day interactions, which are far more compelling. 

Pitt has certainly fallen out of favor with some audiences over the past decade, as allegations of domestic abuse have marred his artistic work for many. This was clearly evident during my screening when the studio representative asked the audience who was here for Pitt and who was here for Odin; the former received a paltry response while the latter earned enthusiastic applause. His personal life aside, Pitt delivers a great performance in the film as Belmont. He may be the most recognizable movie star in the world, so it’s quite the feat to strip that celebrity away and leave the audience feeling connected to a down-to-earth veteran acclimating to a new life. He delivers in equal measure on the high-stakes action and the tender, emotional moments. Just as important, his chemistry with Odin is undeniable. There’s a small moment where he mimics the dog as he shakes water off his coat that does wonders to strengthen the believability of this battle-tested relationship. Acting with animals is a distinct skillset, and Pitt proves it’s another weapon in his arsenal. 

In his acting debut, Uber gives a masterclass in what should be the new blueprint for dogs on film. While breeds such as Labrador Retrievers have the innate “cuteness factor” that can easily pull on audience heartstrings, German Shepherds may be better known to many for their strength and intimidating look. Uber embodies those qualities, but there’s a softness behind his eyes that engenders a sympathy for Odin’s experience. He is also incredibly well-trained and dialed into whatever his scenes require of him. I can’t remember an instance where he ever felt disconnected from the story. Outside of Pitt and Uber, the other performance of note is a very brief appearance from Academy Award winner J.K. Simmons as Walter Boone, an eccentric wanderer who meets our protagonists at the start of their trek. While his time on screen is surprisingly slim for an actor of his pedigree, he offers some lighthearted levity amidst the weightiness of the rest of the film.

I wouldn’t normally expect too much in terms of technical merit from a film like Heart of the Beast, but I was pleasantly surprised, particularly with the cinematography from Mauro Fiore, who took home the Academy Award for 2009’s Avatar. His ability to capture both the beauty and danger of the mountainous New Zealand terrain (portrayed as Alaska in the film) is nothing short of breathtaking. It feels immersive, and perfectly sets the stage for the epic nature of the journey that unfolds. Pair that with a score from Jared Michael Fry that is at times heartracing and other times serene, and it’s easy to feel one with nature throughout. 

Heart of the Beast doesn’t necessarily break new ground for either dog movies or survival thrillers. It does, however, deliver on some of the best aspects of the two, blending them in a way that makes for a quality moviegoing experience. Thrill seekers and animal lovers are sure to connect with this tale of resilience. 

Paramount Pictures will release Heart of the Beast in theaters on September 25.

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