The new film was released to theaters March 15th, advertised as an incredible true story told about the journey of a man and his dog. As a dog lover, my immediate reaction was that I could not sit through yet another tear-jerker where the dog eventually dies; however, my emotion quickly changed when the preview itself stated that the dog does not pass away at any point throughout the film. With this reassurance, I rushed to the theaters, and I loved every part of the film, from the perfectly organized cast, the tremendous scenery, and of course the motivational and heartwarming story.

The lead, Mark Whalberg, takes on the role of Mikael Lindnord, a Swedish director, author, coach, entrepreneur and elite athlete. Lindnord began his career as an adventure racer in 1997, taking on unimaginable courses in intense climates, challenging athletes both physically and mentally. The beginning of the film explains his story as long, and impressive yet unsuccessful. Lindnord needed a victory and had very little time to complete such a task. He decided to give his life-long goal one final shot, risking not only his financial security, but his own safety as well. With very little money, time and resources to work with, he put together an imperfect, but motivated team. The group travels to the Dominican Republic where they will take on the nearly week-long journey, covering hundreds of miles by running, hiking, climbing, paddling and more. With little time for rest, the teams must compete to find their own way to the finish line, conquering any obstacle that may lie in their path.

Due to economic challenges, nations such as the Dominican Republic currently face issues with their stray dog populations. As the team began their journey a particular ‘street dog’ found an interest in the competition. Lindnord noticed the animal and immediately sympathized with his ragged appearance. He gave the dog a treat, and was then on his way, thinking nothing of his action. Nearly two hundred miles later, the team once again came in contact with the dog, but how? The team had spent days running, climbing and even paddling. The team eventually accepted the dog as one of their own, and he became not only another member, buta key part of this ambitious expedition.

The dog continues with the team as Linlord makes his final attempt to be deemed champion. This story had me fighting back tears, laughing out loud, and clinging to the edge of my seat, anxiously waiting to see if this team of underdogs would cross the finish line.