Movie Review (No Spoilers)
Summary
A man chasing his dream of joining the K-9 elite search and rescue unit, he is a state trooper that decides to partner with a fellow underdog, a clever but naughty shelter pup. His name is Daniel O’Neil (played by Grant Gustin) and he always had a dream to be in the K-9 search and rescue team but for the last eight years he has not qualified. This is his last year to make it. Then he meets Ruby (Bear) who is an intelligent, playful and troublesome dog who has never had a permanent home. But Daniel O’Neil is determined to make the K-9 unit with the first ever shelter dog. With a determined mindset, he is on his way to bond and make Ruby the best dog in the K-9 unit. Directed by Katt Shea, this Netflix original movie is based on a true story.
State trooper, Daniel O’Neil is a loving husband and father, caring and kind, energetic and determined who struggles with restless behaviour and easily becomes tiresome, and has problems with criticizing himself harshly. Matt Zarella, the chief of the K-9 search and rescue team, is dedicated to his job and can work well with the public by empathizing. He is also very firm and serious. Seamus Brady (Tom McBeath) is a man of wisdom and hope who allows Daniel to persevere throughout the film. He gives Daniel inside knowledge and advice, he tells Daniel that he does not need a German shepherd for the k-9 unit, which cost thousands, and encourages him to keep believing in Ruby.
One of the lead roles, Daniel O’Neil, is played by Grant Gustin who is predominantly known for his role in “The Flash” in the CW series on Netflix. According to the film blog Different Drummer, the role of Ruby “is played by an actor dog named Bear, who like Ruby came close to being euthanized for unmanageable behaviour.”
Matt Zarella is played by Scott Wolf, who has also portrayed Carson Drew in the Nancy Drew (2019) series. He is most recognized for his role in Go (1999) and voicing Scamp in Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure (2001).
“Rescued by Ruby” has done an excellent job in retelling the real life story of Dan O’Neil, whose dream was to work in the K-9 unit. Patricia Inman prevented Ruby from being euthanized because she believed greatly in Ruby and offered for Ruby to be placed with the Rhode Island State Police. Despite facing challenges (Dan O’Neil with dyslexia and hyperactivity), Ruby was the best at her search and rescue training with Dan O’Neil with Dan O’Neil’s guidance. Dan O’Neil and Ruby provided evidence to help convict two murderers arrested during their partnership of over 11 years (2011 to 2022, when the movie was released) to the present.
‘Rescued by Ruby’ vs. the True Story of Dan O’Neil and his K-9 Dog Ruby
The Review! Drumroll Please!
Rescued by Ruby is reminiscent of a cheesy Hallmark film with a predictable plot and a theme of hope and perseverance. As the lead, Grant Gustin does a great job at portraying a loving husband and a state trooper, but he sometimes lacks passion in his performance for us to really feel the story. Completed with light piano style music, it is perfect for those cold or grey days when you’re feeling something light-hearted. I personally give this movie 4 out of five stars.
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