Title: The Plague Dogs
Year: 1982
Genre: Adventure, Animation, Drama
Rating: 7.9
Cast: John Hurt, Christopher Benjamin, James Bolam, Nigel Hawthorne, Warren Mitchell
Description: Forget anthropomorphic cuteness; Martin Rosen's "The Plague Dogs" delivers a gut-wrenching indictment of scientific hubris and the callous disregard for sentient life. This isn't a children's film, despite its animated exterior; it's a brutal, unflinching exploration of trauma, loyalty, and the horrifying consequences of unchecked ambition. The animation, while dated by today's standards, serves the story perfectly, enhancing the stark emotional landscape. Rowley and Black, two experimental subjects escaping a cruel fate, become poignant symbols of resilience in the face of unimaginable suffering. Their bond transcends species, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about our treatment of animals and the ethical boundaries we so readily cross. Prepare to be deeply moved, disturbed, and ultimately, challenged by this powerful and unforgettable animated masterpiece.