A lot can happen between lost and found.|Jan. 10, 2019|China | United States|96 Min.|PG
Genre: Adventure;Drama;Family
Description: **A Dog’s Way Home (2019) – Story Overview**
Lucas Ray and his friend Olivia, residents of Denver, Colorado, discover a puppy alongside several kittens and a mother cat at a construction site. Lucas decides to adopt the puppy, naming her Bella, and brings her home to live with his mother, Terri Ray. Over time, Lucas develops a strong bond with Bella, taking care of her and ensuring her well-being. However, Lucas continues to feed the cats at the old construction site, which angers Günter Beckenbauer, the man planning to demolish the property. Günter reports the cats to the city, delaying the demolition. In retaliation, he also notifies animal control that Bella is an illegal pitbull breed (despite her not resembling one), as pitbulls are banned in Denver due to their classification as a dangerous breed.
One evening, an overzealous animal control officer named Chuck warns Lucas that Bella will be impounded if found outside. The next day, Bella escapes to chase a squirrel, and Chuck seizes her despite Lucas’s efforts to intervene. Lucas manages to retrieve Bella by paying a fine but is warned that if Bella is caught again, she will be euthanized. To protect her, Lucas sends Bella to live with Olivia’s aunt and uncle in Farmington, New Mexico, until he and his mother can relocate outside Denver’s city limits.
Unwilling to be apart from Lucas, Bella escapes Farmington and embarks on a 400-mile journey back home. Her adventure spans over two years, during which she befriends an orphaned cougar cub she names “Big Kitten.” Together, they face numerous challenges, including an attack by a pack of coyotes. Fortunately, a group of men intervenes, saving Bella and scaring off the coyotes. Although the men attempt to contact Lucas after learning about Bella’s owner, they are startled by the arrival of Big Kitten and leave before completing their call. Bella’s journey continues through various trials, including winter’s harsh conditions, as she strives to reunite with Lucas.
This heartfelt story highlights the unbreakable bond between a dog and her owner, showcasing Bella’s determination and resilience.
Cast director: Charles Martin Smith
Cast actor: Ashley Judd, Jonah Hauer-King, Edward James Olmos, Alexandra Shipp, Chris Bauer, Barry Watson, Motell Gyn Foster, Wes Studi, Bryce Dallas Howard, John Cassini
Original name: A Dog’s Way Home