Backdrop preview Megan Leavey backdrop
Megan Leavey

Megan Leavey (2017)

Jun 09, 2017 1h 56m Drama War

The true story of Marine Corporal Megan Leavey, who forms a powerful bond with an aggressive combat dog, Rex. While deployed in Iraq, the two complete more than 100 missions and save countless lives, until an IED explosion puts their faithfulness to the test.

Watch Trailer
Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Gabriela Cowperthwaite
Writer
  • Pamela Gray
  • Annie Mumolo
  • Tim Lovestedt
Producer
  • Mickey Liddell
  • Pete Shilaimon
  • Jennifer Monroe

Reviews

Svumpukkel85

For me being a non-dog-lover, I don't get this movie.

Acting was ok, filming ok. Superficial representation of characters. No tension and no feelings ewoked.

It was a lame 1½ hr. I recommend this movie for dog-lovers.

Oct 12, 2017

Reno
8/10

**At the end, every hero's life should be 'happily ever after'!**

From the director of 'Blackfish'. It could have been another fine documentary, in the end it was a right choice to be made as a feature film. This is a biographical film, a war drama. The story of a young woman who joined the US army and developed a close relationship with a military dog. They both served in the Iraq war and later separated. So she fought for the dog's custody, especially after it retiring from the service. A touching story about man- animal bonding. You might have seen many dog films, but this is different and so good.

People have rights to choose what they want to be. Most importantly, they can change the field at any time. At least that's how things happen in a democracy. But that's not the case for animals, especially human pets under any kind of the ruling system. Why should animals fight human wars! There were many kinds of animal slaveries abolished, yet this kind of legal things still going on. In the present world, it could be okay, but as an animal lover, I hope in the near future, it'll be called inhumane.

Anyhow, this is a must watch if you are a pet/dog lover. If you ever had a dog, you will feel more connected to it. The story was told from Megan Leavey's perspective, but Rex, the dog was the real hero. Both, the real and film dog. I have seen many films of Kate Mara, but when it comes dominant performance, this is the one. This is not a multi- star cast as her most of the film, so she did an awesome job. Slightly emotional too, a good film for all ages. Particularly this is a chic film that's not a romance or a comedy. Equivalent to any men's films.

_8/10_

Feb 4, 2018

Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Megan Leavey examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Gabriela Cowperthwaite brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Megan Leavey took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 116 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 67 unique compositions.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Megan Leavey shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Babe: Pig in the City, which focuses more on action than character development, Megan Leavey subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Harmonists and Afterparty explore similar territory, Megan Leavey stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 9, 2017
  • Runtime: 1h 56m
  • Revenue: $13,406,883

Where to Watch

Max
Max Amazon Channel

Similar Movies