Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4 out of 5 stars)
This heartwarming film, available on Disney+, tells the remarkable true story of an underdog and his musher. Here’s my take: “Togo” is a smart and affectionately made tale that tugs at your heartstrings. Directed by Ericson Core, the film beautifully captures the bond between a determined dog and his musher, Leonhard Seppala (played by Willem Dafoe).
The Plot: A Journey of Perseverance
The story unfolds in the harsh Alaskan wilderness during the 1925 serum run to Nome. A deadly diphtheria outbreak threatens the town’s children, and Seppala embarks on a treacherous journey to retrieve the life-saving serum. But it’s not just Seppala who takes the lead—his loyal Siberian Husky, Togo, plays an equally vital role.
Togo is independent, persistent, and even has a sense of humor. What sets this film apart is that it doesn’t feel like watching a dog who performs brave, heroic acts because he’s obedient; it’s because he chooses to. Togo’s journey from a small, underestimated puppy to a proven leader is both heartwarming and inspiring.
The movie deftly weaves between past and present, showing Togo’s early struggles to prove himself and the life-or-death sled runs with Seppala. The tension builds as they face treacherous terrain, icy cliffs, and the relentless Alaskan weather. You’ll find yourself holding your breath during the thrilling dog sled scenes. Dafoe, a treat in any film, delivers a standout performance. His portrayal of Seppala captures the determination, love for his dogs, and the weight of responsibility. A monologue delivered while racing across the ice feels like a cut paragraph from his previous gig in “The Lighthouse.”
Togo’s escapades—whether wriggling out of pens or facing icy perils—are gratuitously delightful. And those dog sled scenes? They’re heart-pounding, especially when Togo and crew race across rapidly breaking ice. The green screen usage enhances the storytelling, making you feel the danger. While the dog steals the show, the adult aspects sometimes stumble. Seppala’s marital disagreements with his wife Constance (played by Julianne Nicholson) lack subtlety. But Dafoe’s presence compensates, and his chemistry with the dogs shines.
“Togo” is a nostalgic, old-school film that celebrates heroism, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between man and dog. It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves adventure, heart, and wagging tails.
