Channing Tatum, known for his acting in both live-action and animated films, is now exploring a new role behind the camera as well. The actor is making his directorial debut in the upcoming buddy-comedy film, Dog, which centres around an unlikely friendship between a former army ranger and man’s best friend, a military dog named Lulu.
Tatum, a fierce animal lover, shares a special bond with his on-screen canine co-star, Lulu, which has led fans to wonder if it’s based on a true story. While some aspects of Dog are inspired by elements in Tatum’s life, it is not entirely based on any real events.
What is Dog About?
The film centres around former U.S. Army Ranger Briggs (Tatum), who is tasked with the difficult responsibility of bringing Lulu, a military Belgian Malinois, to the funeral of a fellow soldier and Lulu’s handler, Sergeant Rodriguez. Briggs does this so he can earn back the respect of his higher-ups and re-integrate into the army again. At first, the pair do not get along well, but along the way, Briggs and Lulu develop a special friendship and learn important lessons from one another.
Is Dog Based on a True Story?
Though not entirely based on a true story, elements of Dog are inspired by Tatum’s life. The Belgian Malinois in the film, Lulu, is named after Tatum’s late dog Lulu in real life. Lulu, a Pitbull-Catahoula mix, made her way to Tatum and his ex-wife Jenna Dewan from a dog pound in Alabama, per People. The pair loved the dog dearly. She died from cancer in December 2018. After her death, Tatum posted on Instagram, writing, “I’ll see you again baby girl. But you’ll always be with me. Always.”
Though the name is the only similarity between the Lulu on screen and Tatum’s pup, the inspiration and connection is nonetheless meaningful. Check out a picture of Lulu circa 2013 below.
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What is the Inspiration Behind Dog?
While Dog is not based on real events, it is clear that the passing of Lulu inspired Tatum to make the film. Talks of the film and its production started as early as November 2019 (via Deadline) nearly one year after Tatum lost Lulu. He is co-directing the film with Reid Carolin, the screenwriter behind films Magic Mike, Magic Mike XXL, and Magic Mike’s Last Dance, which also star Tatum. In early 2020, the film began production, with Tatum taking to Twitter to share the news and pay homage to Lulu. In a heartfelt post, the actor said in short, “A little over a year ago I got back from a road trip where I said goodbye to my best friend. Now I’m making a movie inspired by her.”
A little over a year ago I got back from a road trip where I said goodbye to my best friend. Now I’m making a movie inspired by her. So proud to announce that DOG will be released by @MGM_Studios and in theaters next Valentine’s Day weekend. pic.twitter.com/JXDqEy85JZ
— Channing Tatum (@channingtatum) March 2, 2020
Judging by the looks of the trailer, along with knowing Tatum’s personal connection to the film, Dog will definitely tug at our heartstrings and leave us laughing and crying at the same time. Catch Dog in theatres Feb. 18, 2022, and watch the trailer below.
Image Source: Everett Collection