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Supporting the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter
The much anticipated Top Dog Film Festival returns for another year, promising joy, inspiration, and a whole lot of canine magic to audiences across Australia. This family- friendly event will once again showcase a collection of uplifting and heartwarming films that capture the beauty and unique personalities of beloved four- legged companions.
The Top Dog Film Festival makes a stop at the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz, allowing dog lovers from all walks of life to experience the enchantment and deep emotional connections shared between humans and their furry friends. From heart-warming stories, to jaw- dropping adventures, this year's film selection promises to leave no stone unturned in celebrating the incredible bond shared between dog and human.
This year’s lineup of films includes a diverse range of films that are sure to evoke a range of emotions from laughter to tears. Audiences can expect heartwarming tales of rescue dogs finding their forever homes, incredible stories of courageous canines overcoming obstacles, and touching narratives that illustrate the unwavering loyalty and devotion that dogs possess.
As an inclusive and family- friendly event, theTop Dog Film Tour provides a welcoming space for dog lovers of all ages. Whether it’s a lifelong dog enthusiast, a recent dog adopter, or simply an appreciation for the unique bond between humans and animals, this tour promises an experience that will tug at heartstrings and leave them with a renewed appreciation for the extraordinary spirit of dogs.
A portion of ticket sales benefit the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. Join us for a YAPPY HOUR at Sante Adairius Midtown Portal before the show. A portion of sales will benefit the Shelter.
THE MISSING PIECE
5 minutes: Czech Republic
Jump straight into the scene of a cosy European home and follow an uplifting journey in “The Missing Piece”. This delightfully fresh film emphasises the true significance of dogs as cherished members of our family as we experience the joy and love they bring, reminding us of the importance of treating them with the care and devotion they deserve.
GREAT MEDICINE: A MUTUAL RESCUE STORY
4 minutes: USA
Cupcake was feisty and fierce when Sandy met her at Muttville Senior Dog Rescue. The poodle needed help learning to trust. Sandy needed support and companionship. Though retired, Sandy was caring for her adult son after a devastating injury as well as managing the historic bar he owned. When Cupcake joined the family, they found behind her attitude was a joyful little soul with a huge heart. Watch Great Medicine, the story of a small dog who taught them that even in dark moments, love, loyalty and laughter will see you through.
Dog Shelter
5 minutes: Indonesia
The exhilarating documentary ‘Dog Shelter’ follows Dewi, an unstoppable 18- year- old, as she embarks on a life-altering mission after a profound life event. Brace yourself for a gripping tale of redemption as Dewi’s unwavering determination transforms into a sanctuary housing over 120 dogs and 25 cats. A truly awe-inspiring journey that will leave you amazed by her incredible triumph!
NGAYUKU PAPA (MY DOG): TINY
3 minutes: Australia
A charming collaboration between the Tjanpi Desert Weavers artists from Warakurna in the remote Western Australian desert and animator Jonathan Daw. A captivating combination of stop-motion animation and live-action storytelling tells a tale of remote desert community life, depicting the unique and often amusing personalities of community dogs and their friendships with Anangu. Featuring Ngaanyatjarra woman Cynthia Burke telling the story of her dog Tiny this film shares the universal similarities of being a dog mum.
Healing Paws
Experience the heartwarming impact that a new type of therapy dog has on hospital patients in Georgia, USA. These dogs are specifically bred to be warm, loving and emotionally strong facility dogs. Witness the profound effect these incredible canines have on healing the soul in the touching film ‘Healing Paws’. Be nothing short of amazed as these furry heroes make a tangible difference in people's lives, offering a stunning display of love, comfort, and transformation.
YOU CAN’T SHRINK LOVE
5 minutes : USA
You Can’t Shrink Love is an eye-opening portrayal of the unwavering love and devotion that dog owners carry even after their beloved pets have departed. This touching and creative masterpiece delves into one woman's self-found ‘life calling’ to immortalise the cherished memories and unbreakable bond between humans and dogs. A heartfelt exploration of a deep connection that transcends time and continues to inspire.
SALTY SEA DOGS
27 minutes : Australia
Get to know three dogs whose lives revolve around the ocean. Buster, a miniature schnauzer, struts down the wharf in a small New Zealand village four days a week to go to work as a dolphin-spotting dog. Using his keen sense of hearing, he alerts cruise passengers when the rare Hector’s dolphins are nearby - and tries not to fall overboard in his excitement. Spike, a rescue nearly 15 years old, has made a name for himself as a Noosa surf dog champion. Surprising his human one day, Spike took to the waves on his own, and after discovering Spike’s natural ability to manoeuvre a surfboard, they never looked back. And Trip, a six year old rescue Koolie living by the Ningaloo Reef couldn’t imagine a day without being on the water with his humans, whose work as underwater cinematographers has taken him on some wild adventures - from living aboard a ship to close encounters with sharks! For these dogs, a life at sea can’t be beat.ard a ship to close encounters with
sharks! For these dogs, a life at sea can’t be beat.
BETTER WITH PETS: ARLEIGH REYNOLDS
10 minutes: USA
Rural Alaska is a land of extremes. The environment is harsh, and an influx of crippling social issues within some small communities don't make things any easier. The Frank Attla Youth & Dog Care Program is designed to help. Through curriculum, training, cultural history, and hard work, at-risk youth reignite a passion for their heritage and learn many valuable life skills in the process, all while bonding with working dogs.
Connected to this initiative is Dr. Arleigh Reynolds, a World Champion dog musher living and working in Alaska. Keen on preserving the rich cultural bond between people and dogs, Arleigh travels to rural villages to lend a hand. Join Arleigh as he visits the village of Huslia, the venerable home of some of Alaska's greatest mushers, to contribute to the Frank Attla Youth & Dog Care Program.
FILMING DOGS
10 minutes: Australia
Step into a room brimming with furry potential, where dreams of stardom come alive. Enter the captivating world of “Filming Dogs” as Ra, a spirited scruffy terrier, embarks on an audacious animal actor audition alongside three canine companions. With time ticking away, thirteen-year-old Ra yearns to fulfil the filmmaker's ambition for fame. This thought provoking documentary delves into the motivations behind humans seeking on screen glory for their four-legged companions, challenging us to question if it's for us, for them, or for something far deeper.
TRAVELLING THIS ROAD TOGETHER: A MUTUAL RESCUE STORY
4 minutes: USA
There is nothing like a shared experience to forge a rock solid bond.
When a Colorado senior rescued her adorable dog, their parallel cancer journey’s established an unbreakable connection like no other.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF SCHWEITZER'S AVALANCHE SEARCH AND RESCUE DOG TEAM
12 minutes: USA
Spend a day with Schweitzer Mountain's talented Avalanche Search and Rescue Dogs and their incredible handlers to learn more about how these teams train for avalanche rescue scenarios. The SAR dogs: Abbey, Annie, and Murphy, practise live burials, ride chairlifts, and rip around the mountain on their handlers' shoulders. It's clear that these dogs love their jobs and now we can see why.
THE MOUNTAIN DOGS
16 minutes: USA
Possibly one of the most incredible stories is of Sampson and Baylor, two cherished Gold Retrievers who conquer the majestic Pinnacle Trail in Stow, Vermont, day after day, all on their own. Witness their inspiring determination as they navigate the rugged terrain, igniting a sense of wonder and admiration for their unwavering spirit. Prepare for a heartwarming take of canine resilience and adventure that will leave you breathless.
Show time: 7:00 PM, doors 6:00 PM
Tickets: $20
Advance tickets: www.eventbrite.com
