Susie's Hope (2013)
Family - In this family tale based on a true story, a woman who suffered a violent pit bull attack comes to terms with the harrowing experience by adopting a puppy that was severely beaten, burned and left to die. - Emmanuelle Vaugier, Burgess Jenkins, Andrea Powell
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Expected more
At first rather annoying in its heavy emphasis on reenactments, this movie ultimately proves fascinating, simply because the complicated, highly dramatic tale it tells still almost defies belief.
By the time the dramatic fireworks start popping off, each one feels earned.
This is a dark and sometimes deeply uncomfortable drama
This movie was heartbreaking, but inspirational. It is my hope it will bring awareness and stricter laws in all states. I am so thankful Susie survived this horrendous abuse, is loved, and a spokes dog for animal cruelty. Although Donna was severely injured by a pit bull, she knew the dog didn't do it out of meaness, but because of irresponsible and ignorant owners. You don't just tie a dog up and expect him to be social and behave around adults and children, or other animals. Donna has a loving heart, and she and Susie are an inspiration to everyone in working towards an end to the cycle of animal abuse. Thank you for all the love and dedication that went into making this movie a reality.
The positive messages are delivered by the action of the characters, not by hitting you over the head with Thou Shalt Nots. The acting is excellent, the dialog is intelligent. I almost wish the movie could have been a mini-series so that we could see more who these people were, where they came from, etc. And more insight into the relationship they all form -- Donna, her husband, her best friend, and Baby Girl -- prior to the arrival of Susie. And maybe more on what Donna and Susie are doing today. My only criticism is that the first view of Susie as a puppy uses a mechanical (?) animal that is unfortunately not that realistic. But that is only a small bit. Anyone who can watch this movie and not be moved to some sort of action is dead inside. You can donate to the fund or to any of your local rescue groups. Yes, no one can save the world but we can all save one tiny part of it.
I have had the honor of working with, and on behalf of, shelter animals. I was also fortunate enough to receive the love of a Pitt Bull. Whenever we went out for a walk, without fail, some adults who would inquire about her breed would give us "The Look", as I like to call it. Even though, my girl was happily wagging her tail, and ready to give kisses and receive pets, she was automatically viewed as a threat. Funny how all the children in our development would come running to receive those kisses! Susie's Hope is an incredible movie about some amazing folks who could be our next door neighbors. Donna Lawrence endured a horror none of us could even imagine; a Pitt Bull attack. Yet, Donna was able to have the grace and understanding to realize that the dog was not to blame, but the people who were supposed to care for him, and instead betrayed and neglected him.While most of us would live the rest of our lives in fear, Donna not only walked with courage, but with love. Her rescue of the burned and beaten, puppy, Susie is an imperative message for us all. We turn on the TV, and/or go to the movies and are surrounded by violence, and images of a world in peril. Susie's Hope does just that. It shows us how to walk in the light by the power of love, and with hope and love all things are possible! Watch this with your family, friends and companion animals!
This is one of the best movies I have seen. Great for the whole family. A moving, inspirational and uplifting film, based on a true story. You will fall in love with Susie. Susie plays herself halfway through the movie and is a true star. Donna Lawrence's survival of a near fatal dog attack and Susie's survival of an attack by a human, and how they merge together to fight for stronger animal cruelty laws, is truly remarkable. Their bond is so strong and their faith remarkable. There are funny, sad and moving, moments, throughout the movie. Loved the real pictures at the end of the movie. I would highly recommend this movie!