By Forris Day Jr.
“Susie’s Hope” tells the true story of Donna Lawrence. She is a woman who loves animals and when she hears a neighbors dog barking constantly all day and night she takes action. She goes to the neighbors yard and finds a Pit Bull tied up with no food or water. Her and her friend feed the dog and give it water as it seems the owners have abandoned the dog. After the initial feeding Lawrence judges the dog to be friendly and goes back on her own to feed the dog but is brutally attacked by the beaten dog. She is hospitalized and the dog is euthanized. This is where the story takes an unexpected twist.
Several months later, as she is still healing physically and mentally, Lawrence and her friend find what they think is a dead puppy tossed in some shrubs at a park. The puppy is burned and beaten but surprisingly still alive. The puppy had been doused with lighter fluid and set on fire. Lawrence vows to save the puppy and bring it’s abuser to justice. The puppy is a Pit Bull mix. This only fuels her desire to find justice for the pup she names Susie. Susie is burned so badly that her ears are gone and she must fight for her life through infections and broken bones.
Even if you aren’t someone who loves animals I believe you will be angered by the actions of animal abusers after watching this film. The plight of Susie has helped create new laws for animal abusers who may otherwise get off the hook scott-free for their inhumane crimes. It is sad how cruel people can be to one another and other living things. I do not consider myself an animal lover but I do have a heart and do enjoy other peoples pets. All the folks I know are loving and caring owners so it escapes me as to how some people can do such savage things to a dog or any other animal for that matter.
The movie was created to tell the story of Susie and to raise awareness of animal cruelty. Although a graphic story, the movie isn’t shot in a graphic fashion. It is family friendly so the kids can watch it without fear of seeing anything horrifying. I recommend this one for sure.
Review: 7.5/10 – “It’s a dog gone interesting movie”
