Approved for 12+

Firehouse Dog

Rex, Hollywood's top-grossing canine, is known for his extreme athletic abilities and diva-like demeanor. His perks package, rivaling that of any A-list celebrity, includes Kobe beef, a poodle harem, and a diamond collar. Rex's luck--and Hollywood high life--runs out while shooting a commercial; an aerial stunt goes awry, leading Rex's handlers to presume he's dead. But Rex is merely lost--alone, filthy and unrecognizable in an unfamiliar city. Chased by animal control, he takes refuge in grubby abandoned lofts, a far cry from his former luxurious lifestyle.

Shane Fahey, a bright but rebellious 12-year-old, has exasperated his father Connor for the umpteenth time. A single parent and captain of the rundown inner city fire station known as Dogpatch, Connor is charged with inspiring his sad-sack company, who are still coping with the recent loss of their former captain, Connor's brother. Shane is also troubled by his uncle's death, and he's been acting out by ditching school. As Connor reprimands Shane for his unruly behavior, Dogpatch gets a call to put out a blaze tearing through the lofts where Rex has been hiding. Trapped on the loft's burning roof, Rex makes a death-defying leap and is rescued by Connor. Once they are safe on the ground, Shane is tasked with finding the mutt's owner. The pompous, fastidious Rex and the troubled, messy Shane immediately clash. Unaware of Rex's true identity, Shane becomes his reluctant new master. But his attitude changes when he discovers Rex's spectacular skills, which the firefighters put to use during rescue calls. Inspired by the dog's talent and courage, Dogpatch makes Rex its mascot. It's just the boost the company needs--and what Shane and Connor need to help bring them together. But Rex's fame has drawn the attention of his Hollywood handlers who want him back--while father and son face a deadly challenge from an unexpected source.
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Negative Rating
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SexLanguageViolenceDrugsNudityOther
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Positive Rating
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FaithIntegrity

Dove Review

In comparison to many films being released today, this movie is a breath of fresh air. There are some really good issues of substance in this film, including the theme of moving forward following the death of a close loved one. Watch as the dog becomes a close friend and does amazing tricks. Laugh at him as he poses for pictures. See the sacrificial spirit the firefighters display in their goal of saving lives. Rex, a highly trained stunt dog, comes into Shane’s life accidentally and soon his antics and heroism liven up the small local station and infuses a new spirit which had been sadly lacking. Your family will laugh at some of Rex’s behavior, including his talent to make himself right at home with Shane and his father.

We wish to note that Rex does perform some stunts that only a highly trained stunt dog could perform. The film has some intense moments, as there are fires and explosions, so we recommend the film for ages twelve and above. For the mature kids below twelve, some may be able to handle the intense moments, based on parental judgment. This film drew some well-earned laughs at the screening I attended. Relationships grow in this movie and sometimes kids and dogs can be the heroes. “Firehouse Dog” is a movie the family can enjoy, but we warn you – this dog may just steal your heart. This is a wonderfully inspiring family film.

Dove Rating Details

0
Faith

None

0
Integrity

Many fires; explosions; intense scenes; woman punches man.

1
Sex

Some female dogs called "Bettys" wait for Rex, but it is an enticement that fails.

2
Language

H-3; Bu*t-4; OMG-2; G-1; Su*ks-4.

2
Violence

Many fires; explosions; intense scenes; woman punches man.

1
Drugs

A few scenes with alcohol; a cigarette burning in an ash tray which is not smoked.

1
Nudity

Cleavage; shirtless men; firefighters seen in underwear.

1
Other

Conflict between father and son which is resolved; flatulence from dog; dog goes to the bathroom in a stew; dog urinates on fire.

More Information