The movie is set in Montana’s Enola Vale Youth Correctional Center, where the three boys are sent after being convicted of various crimes. As soon as they arrive, they find themselves within a hierarchical gang system – dominated by powerful inmates who rule with violence.
The film’s portrayal of the brutality and violence that takes place within a youth detention center is both unflinching and harrowing. The young boys, already damaged by their troubled lives, are thrown into a world where they must fight to survive. They face constant threats of physical assault, verbal abuse, and sexual assault at the hands of the older inmates.
Throughout Dog Pound, Kim Chapiron utilizes his masterful skills in portraying the atmosphere of the detention center in its full terrible glory. The director portrays Enola Vale as a dark and cold prison-like environment, with each scene conveying a feeling of discomfort and unease. The cinematography captures every scene intimately and realistically, creating an atmosphere that immediately draws viewers in.
The performances of the lead actors in Dog Pound are nothing short of remarkable. Adam Butcher, who plays Butch, delivers a powerful performance as a young man who must fight to avoid becoming another victim of the center’s brutal hierarchy.
Similarly, Shane Kippel, who plays Davis, is fantastic in his portrayal of a teenager who is bullied continually by the other inmates. Mateo Morales, who plays Angel, is the quietest of the three leads, but he delivers a compelling performance in being the more conscience-driven character of the trio.
In Dog Pound, the three boys ultimately band together to try and survive the harsh realities of Enola Vale. While their relationships are often fraught with tension and conflict, they find a way to stand together and face their predicament as one unit.
The movie closes on an unresolved note that leaves viewers processing what they have just witnessed, which may be a drawback for some viewers looking for more concrete conclusions.
In conclusion, Dog Pound is an unrelenting and uncompromising film that is genuinely harrowing to watch at times. But, it is a beautifully shot, well-acted, and exceptionally directed piece of cinema. The film touches on themes such as friendship, survival, and social class, making it a great addition to any viewing list for those who enjoy thought-provoking films.
It is vital to mention that if you are looking for a lighthearted or feel-good film, then this movie may not be the ideal choice. But, if you want to explore the dark side of the human experience and be left with a cinematic experience that makes you think and question society’s concept of justice and punishment, Dog Pound is a must-watch.