Mike Clinton
Introduction to Thunderheart movie
Thunderheart is a 1992 mystery thriller film directed by Michael Apted, written by John Fusco, and starring Val Kilmer and Sam Shepard. The film is loosely based on events that took place on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in 1973, where a stand-off between Native American activists and the FBI occurred. The movie follows FBI agent Ray Levoi as he is assigned to investigate a murder on the reservation and ends up uncovering a conspiracy that has been going on for over a century.
Overview of the main characters
The main characters in Thunderheart include FBI agent Ray Levoi, played by Val Kilmer, tribal police officer Walter Crow Horse, played by Graham Greene, and Frank Coutelle, played by Sam Shepard. Other notable characters include Maggie Eagle Bear, played by Sheila Tousey, and Jack Milton, played by Fred Ward.
The role of the dog in the story
The dog in Thunderheart plays a minor but significant role in the story. The dog is first seen when Ray Levoi arrives on the reservation, and the dog confronts him before being called away by Walter Crow Horse. Later on, the dog is shown to be protective of Crow Horse and helps him track down the killer. The dog’s loyalty and intuition are vital in solving the case and bringing the culprits to justice.
Breed and physical characteristics of the dog
The dog in Thunderheart is a German Shepherd named Buddy. German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts, making them popular choices for police and military work. Buddy was a trained acting dog known for his ability to take commands and perform various tasks on cue. He had a thick, black coat and a muscular build, typical of the breed.
Training process and handling on set
Buddy was trained by Karl Lewis Miller, who was also responsible for training the other animals in the movie. Miller used positive reinforcement techniques to train Buddy, focusing on rewarding good behavior and ignoring bad behavior. On set, Buddy was handled by a team of animal trainers who ensured his safety and comfort. Special precautions were taken during filming to make sure that Buddy was not put in any dangerous or stressful situations.
Symbolism and cultural significance of the dog
In Native American culture, dogs are often seen as protectors and guardians. The dog in Thunderheart represents this aspect of Native American culture and is a symbol of loyalty, intuition, and strength. His presence in the movie helps to convey the message that the Native American way of life is under threat and that their traditions and beliefs are worth protecting.
Behind the scenes: interviews with the cast and crew
In interviews, Val Kilmer has called Buddy "the ultimate team player" and praised the dog’s ability to work with the cast and crew. Director Michael Apted also spoke highly of Buddy, saying that he was a "very intelligent and well-trained dog." The animal trainers who worked with Buddy spoke about the challenges of working with animals on set and the importance of treating them with respect and care.
Reception and impact of the dog on the audience
Despite the dog’s relatively small role in the movie, Buddy became a fan favorite and has remained a memorable part of the film for many viewers. His loyalty and bravery have resonated with audiences, and his presence has helped to highlight the important themes of the movie. Buddy has also become a popular symbol of Native American culture and a reminder of the bond between humans and animals.
Legacy and continued recognition of the dog
Buddy’s legacy lives on in the hearts of Thunderheart fans, and his image has become synonymous with the movie. The dog has inspired fan art, merchandise, and even a tribute video on YouTube. Buddy’s role in the movie has also helped to shed light on the importance of animal welfare in the entertainment industry and the need to treat animals with kindness and respect.
Conclusion and final thoughts on the dog in Thunderheart
Buddy may have been a minor character in Thunderheart, but his impact has been significant. The dog’s loyalty, intuition, and bravery have made him an important symbol of Native American culture and a beloved part of the movie. Buddy’s legacy serves as a reminder of the important role that animals play in our lives and the need to treat them with the care and respect they deserve.