Directors
Aaron McCann and Dominic Pearce

Many people around the world have seen the popular and much-loved Australian comedy-drama, Red Dog. Those of you who cherished this true story and its canine star, Koko, are now given the opportunity to witness how Koko went from Dunolly to Dampier.

Though it certainly sounds like one, the producers would like you to know that Koko: A Red Dog Story is not a documentary. Or a dogumentary, for that matter. They have described their film as a fictionalised take on real life events shot in a documentary style. Essentially, what you can expect from this format is the narration of Koko’s story being accompanied by several tongue-in-cheek and very light-hearted re-enactments. Once Koko’s journey leads him to the set of Red Dog’s production, it’s fair to say this film also and partially becomes a making-of Red Dog feature.

It took me a little while to warm to this format while Koko: A Red Dog Story chronicled Koko’s beginnings. At first, I understood this to be a feature film. But its documentary style is evident right from the get-go. While trying to figure out exactly what I was watching, I couldn’t help but feel there was a little too much goofing around going on for my liking. Furthermore, sometimes the film’s presentation and direction can make it difficult to distinguish fact from fiction. Eventually, and especially when Koko’s remarkable destiny happens before our eyes, this questionable format really begins to pay off. More and more scenes, such as certain insights shared into some difficulties shooting Red Dog, the film’s publicity trail and awards run are often a treat to witness. On the flip side, Koko’s surprising personal journey and a special, life-changing bond he forms while on set yield very touching outcomes.

3 ½ stars

A portion of the DVD’s release revenue will be aiding The Dogs’ Refuge Home of W.A. Since 2012 the RED DOG franchise has contributed over $125,000 to shelters around Australia.

Viewer Discretion
G (Very mild themes and coarse language)

Trailer
Koko: A Red Dog Story

Moviedoc thanks Umbrella Entertainment, Good Dog Distribution and Ned & Co Marketing and Publicity and Annette Smith for providing the screener link to watch and review this film.

Koko: A Red Dog Story is available via DVD and Video on Demand from the 4th of November, 2020.

Review by Leigh for Moviedoc
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