This year cinema has offered some treats for fans of dogs on film. I was intending to write a ‘best films of the year’ list, but this seemed so much more important. Here is a list of the most memorable cinematic dogs of 2011. I haven’t seen every film released this year, so there is a chance I have missed the most fantastic dog on film. Therefore, this is a list of the best from films I have seen; feel free to make suggestions in the comments below.
1. Uggy
The Artist is perhaps the finest film released in 2011, and Uggy the finest dog. Irrepressibly cute, this silent movie canine does everything from starring in movies to saving lives. Often a scene stealer, Uggy is integral to The Artist, and undoubtedly adds to the film’s captivating charm.
2. Snowy
It would not be an exaggeration to assert that Snowy is better than his human companion Tintin on all levels in The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn. Snowy is far smarter and more observant than the boy detective, and is miles ahead in terms of natural charisma. Yet Tintin gets all the glory. Go figure.
3. Arthur
The adorable Arthur is the sidekick to Hal and then his son Oliver in Beginners. Arthur talks through the medium of subtitles, which is truly a delight to behold. Arthur’s comments are insightful and sometimes poignant, more than one may expect from a canine companion. Beginners is a great film, and is all the more enchanting with the inclusion of Arthur.
4. Tulip
The honey badger of the list, Tulip has no time for social airs and graces. Instead, Tulip does whatever she likes, sometimes to the displeasure of her owner in My Dog Tulip. Despite her uncouth ways, Tulip proves to be a loyal and affectionate companion, although others who come into contact with her may disagree.
5. Skeletor
The reason Skeletor features on this list is predominantly because he is named after He-Man’s arch nemesis. A retired greyhound, Skeletor is bought as a companion to Adam, who is diagnosed with cancer in 50/50. In spite of his minor role, Skeletor is memorable for his doe-eyed expressions.
I Heart The Talkies 