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On a scientific expedition to Antarctica, guide Jerry Shepard (Paul Walker) and his team of reliable huskies takes charge
of bringing geologist Dr. Davis (Bruce Greenwood) to the place where he believes the meteorite that he is looking for could have landed. Before they could make a good
search however, they are called to return to base by the next morning because of a dangerous approaching storm. Davis asks Shepard for a little more time because, he
knows the rock is just there, somewhere for them to find. The guide relents, agrees on a noon dead line. The mission is a success but the price is Davis falling
into a ravine and breaking a leg.
They barely make it to base. A problem develops: because of the deadly storm—the worst in 25 years and the size of the plane flying out of there, the team of eight huskies has to be left behind. Jerry believes that he could arrange for a plane to return, pick up and take them out of there within three hours, before the storm really blows. But no one is willing to give him a plane or fly him out there.
Press releases say that this movie about "survival, friendship and adventure is inspired by a true story" and "suggested
by a 1983 Japanese film: Nankyoku Monogatari. The movie gives it a 1993 setting.
The story is straight forward and simply told. There are no name stars in the cast, still the characters were well depicted by Bruce Greenwood, Jason Biggs, newcomer Moon Bloodgood, and particularly Paul Walker. The natural and expansive scenic backdrop of ice and snow throughout the film is impressive. Special mention must be made of the exceptional "acting" of the huskies (heavily fur coated working dogs of the artic regions e.g. pulling sleds).
This is one film where the human characters take a back seat. Humans' "best friends" show how human the animals
could be if "properly trained".
The eight huskies are loved and well cared for by Jerry. In turn they reciprocate the same regard and obey his commands. They render valuable services as huskies: pull sleds over long distance, guide and save lives. Davis especially (who had to be pulled up and out of the ravine) and Shepard were brought safely to base at the onset of the storm. Jerry called each dog by name and knew each one from the other. When they were left behind, he thought of them, desperately trying to find a means of going back for them at all times, but no one could or wanted to help. Until Davis is reminded that it was the huskies that saved him, and Jerry was willing to give him a half-day chance to help find the meteor. Perhaps he could find a means for Jerry to go back to Antarctica to find his huskies. If dogs could be peoples' "best friends", then the reverse should follow. This is a film the family will find entertaining, especially those who love dogs.
(Date Reviewed: 20 April 2006)
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