Synopsis
A Labrador retriever named Quill begins specialized training as a guide dog from an early age, then the canine is paired with a blind man who is initially reluctant to rely on his new partner.
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Cast
- Kaoru KobayashiMitsuru Watanabe
- Kippei ShiinaSatoru Tawada
- Kazu MatsudaEtsuo Watanabe
- Yukika SakurataniMitsuko Watanabe
- Keiko TodaMrs. Watanabe
- Teruyuki KagawaIsamu Nii
- Shinobu TerajimaMitsuko Nii
- Hiroko NatoriRen Mito
- RafieAdult Quill
- Kenji MizuhashiYuichi Sakai
Recommendations
- 88
Slant Magazine
The exquisite live-action Quill: The Life of a Guide Dog may be the family film of the year. - 75
Chicago Sun-Times
What sets this film above so many movies about animals is that it's about a dog who is realistic in every aspect. - 70
Village Voice
When isn't it a good time to show a movie tracing the development of a kind, charismatic yellow Labrador retriever from frolicsome puppy to devoted seeing-eye companion to weary senior? - 70
The New York Times
Therein lies the essence of this simple, bluntly effective movie. Its principal selling point - the supreme watchability of dogs, especially working dogs - is undeniably powerful. - 60
Variety
Puppy appeal nudges past some dramatic deficiencies -- if just by a nose. - 60
Time Out
The real star is Rafie, the golden pup that plays Quill; dogs can be taught to sit or lie down, but they can't fake the sort of connection he makes with the people around him. - 60
New York Daily News
Yoichi Sai's movie may be a bit tough for young viewers, but it is gentle and illuminating. - 42
The A.V. Club
The rigors of identifying and training companion dogs are fascinating, but they would fit more comfortably in a non-fiction format, where nobody has to play pretend. As it stands, the dog is the only creature who acts naturally.
