Written and directed by young actor George Jaques in his debut feature, Black Dog is about two teenage boys from contrasting London backgrounds who embark on a road trip together up North, all the way to Scotland. Nathan (Jamie Flatters), who has almost aged out of foster care, wants to locate his biological sister, whereas Sam (Keenan Munn-Francis) has his own private reasons for heading out that way. Their paths cross when Nathan saves Sam from a violent mugging, but they aren’t strangers, having known each other in primary school. During their road trip, more is revealed about their lives as we watch their dynamic develop and they slowly open up to one another.
Black Dog works as an effective road trip drama thanks to its solid writing (with Flatters) and strong performances. Flatters and Munn-Francis have great chemistry and the juxtaposition of their characters make for a good, if not predictable, dynamic. Nathan is cocky and argumentative, rough around the edges. When Sam doesn’t know how to refuel his mum’s car, Nathan tells him, not too kindly, “Your mum and dad can’t be doing everything for you!” He’s abrupt due to his upbringing, but he means well. Sam, on the other hand, is “posh,” but vulnerable and anal-retentive. He’s closed off and hiding an unusual eating disorder. Nathan needs to grow up and be more responsible, and Sam needs to develop some agency and learn how to stand up for himself. Either character could be insufferable, but the actors deliver realistic and sympathetic performances that touch upon the tender and ugly moments of humanity.
The cinematography by Hamish Anderson is beautiful. “Bloody hell,” Nathan says. “It’s beautiful, innit?” It’s not often we get to see a road trip movie set across the UK, showcasing our breathtaking landscapes, but the crew make every use of it here. They may be on the cusp of adulthood, but Sam and Nathan are still teenagers (a tad unbelievable with both actors in their 20s but we move) trying to find their way in a world that has been harsh to them. Despite their adverse life experiences, there are many moments where the pair get to forget about the heaviness permeating their lives and just be teenagers again as they exchange laughter, banter, and meaningful connection. The joy and freedom they find frolicking about on a gorgeous beach at sunset is a moving sight to behold.
The ending is slightly underwhelming as Jaques and Flatters hold back a reveal, but Black Dog is a warm-hearted film. Nothing feels rushed as Sam and Nathan’s stories and personalities unfold naturally, at just the right pace. The reason for Sam’s trip, who is there with his father’s permission, is not revealed until the film’s climax, which is a good choice. It not only allows the characters to be at the right point in their relationship, but it allows the audience to be as well, making for a satisfying pay-off regarding Sam’s character arc. Jaques’ first feature is impressive, making him a talent to keep a close eye on, alongside Flatters and Munn-Francis who are skilled in their performances. Movies always make a road trip with someone you barely know look like a defining, life-changing experience, and Black Dog is no exception to that rule.
Black Dog is available to buy or rent on Apple and Amazon from 19th August.
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