It’s certainly not every day that a film comes along with such stirring real-life inspiration as Sick Puppy. The award-winning short, which has a screenplay by Steve Alper and JayTee Thompson as the director and star, largely succeeds in presenting its harrowing subject matter with a twist on vigilantism.
Thompson plays Calvin Walker, a family man enjoying a casual morning breakfast with his wife (Shyanne King) and son (Ja’ron Thompson) when police storm their residence to serve a search warrant. As the hunt for a supposed stash of drugs commences, officer Furloh (Tom Alper) shoots and kills the Walker’s dog in front of everyone. This unprovoked act serves as the catalyst for the story, as Calvin struggles to come to terms with the callous slaying, eventually turning to vigilantism once the justice system fails to course-correct.
The fact-based angle creates a distressing atmosphere that translates well into Alper’s screenplay, with the overwhelming sense of desperation impacting the performances as well. The standout is, without a doubt, young Ja’ron Thompson, who handles the more difficult scenes with extreme conviction. Thompson’s directing duties do not detract from his acting skills, as he gradually eases into his role, expertly honing Calvin’s conflicted personality.
What the film could have gone into greater detail about are the facts that back it up. It often feels like it’s only showing one side of its proverbial coin, leaving the other to be dealt with via a fade-in text later on. Given the challenging nature of its premise, the filmmakers could have done a little more to enforce the solution. It also struggles to make effective use of its sound design, and the score does little to enhance scenes like the devastating opening or the surprising final act.
The hyperrealistic approach that Sick Puppy takes to an ongoing issue in law enforcement can, at times, feel underdeveloped; however, the film is successful in conveying its message thanks to a number of strong performances and a powerful emotional hook.
