Togo (2019)

7.5 /10

Togo is a 2019 drama film based on a true story and is directed by Ericson Core starring Willem Dafoe and  Julianne Nicholson. The film was released on Disney+ directly.

"Togo" is a tale of a sled dog and his master Seppala. The movie simultaneously tells us the present-day story with flashbacks revealing Togo's past. The main focus of the film is 1925 serum run to Nome. It is the true and inspiring story when a remote town of Alaska was saved from an epidemic by dogs. The antitoxins were transported 674 miles, in the midst of a deadly winter storm.

It's the second movie which I have seen based on the sled dogs. First is Eight Below(2006) starring Paul Walker. I loved that movie so much. Togo is a clever, energetic and lovable dog but is too small to be considered as a sled dog. Seppala initially wanted to get rid of him but Togo being so determined finally proves that he's not only a sled dog, he's the lead dog.

Director Ericson Core perfectly builds the relationship between the dog and his master. As an audience, we too get emotionally attached to Togo. That's the strength of the movie. He's able to build tension during many scenes and those scenes were thrilling and scary at times. Cinematography is good. The storm feels real. The story writing is also good. Acting is effective.

Willem Dafoe as Seppala has effectively played his role. We all know how skilled Dafoe is but the dogs are the true hero of the movie and Togo is in the lead role. Julianne Nicholson plays Seppala's wife's role and has given an honest performance. The film also states the fact that why the name "Balto" is more famous than "Togo".  At last, just wanna say that one should definitely watch this movie.