Underdog (2022)

Review Team

4/5

Underdog presents a touching narrative centred on Esther van Neerbos, a woman who employs her trained dogs to locate missing persons. The film's strength lies in its emotional core, deftly balancing themes of grief and hope. Director Sarah Mitchell captures the intimate relationship between Esther a ... Show more >> Underdog presents a touching narrative centred on Esther van Neerbos, a woman who employs her trained dogs to locate missing persons. The film's strength lies in its emotional core, deftly balancing themes of grief and hope. Director Sarah Mitchell captures the intimate relationship between Esther and her dogs, offering poignant moments that resonate with audiences. The performances are commendable, particularly from the lead actress, whose portrayal of Esther is both heartfelt and authentic. The cinematography effectively complements the story, providing a visual representation of the emotional weight carried by the characters. While the pacing may feel deliberate at times, it allows the audience to fully engage with Esther's journey. Overall, Underdog is a rewarding watch that prompts reflection on loss and the power of companionship. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Underdog is a film that tugs at the heartstrings, but it sometimes feels like it’s playing it a little too safe. Esther, played with sincerity, is a character you want to root for as she searches for the missing, but the plot can be predictable. The emotional moments are genuine, yet they often foll ... Show more >> Underdog is a film that tugs at the heartstrings, but it sometimes feels like it’s playing it a little too safe. Esther, played with sincerity, is a character you want to root for as she searches for the missing, but the plot can be predictable. The emotional moments are genuine, yet they often follow a familiar pattern seen in similar films. The dogs, of course, steal the show and bring a warmth that is hard to resist. However, I found myself wishing for more depth in the storytelling and character development. It's a solid film, certainly, but it doesn’t quite break new ground. If you're in the mood for a feel-good story about dogs and their humans, Underdog will satisfy, but don't expect any major surprises along the way. Show less