Midlands Review of Luna

midlandsmovies • April 16, 2021
Luna

Directed by Isobel Richards

2021

As a dog owner I may be inherently biased towards any film involving a loveable mutt, so it’s with great excitement to hear about new documentary film Luna, which focuses on rescue dogs.

Produced, directed and edited by Midlands filmmaker Isobel Richards, the documentary tells the story of a rescue dog called Luna who comes from the LUOSKO German Shepherd Dog Rescue.

Based in Staffordshire, LUOSKO was founded in 2014 and the organisation is a breed specific rescue for German Shepherds. They can safely house up to 40 dogs at any one time and help to rehabilitate and train stray, abandoned and unwanted dogs.

The documentary opens with the sound of barking and a friendly snout as it is explained in voiceover about the crucial first 48-hours when a dog comes to the centre. The harsh and incredibly sad reality is told that dogs can be within hours of being put to sleep owing to a terrible home life. 

One in particular, Luna, is the foster dog of Stuart Harvey who is the centre’s Rescue Coordinator. Sadly Luna has cancer but despite the illness the bond between them is less owner and pet but as close friends.

And to the director’s credit, the well-edited shots, music and images help demonstrate the warm connection between them. Stuart’s honest and personal feelings about the situation are captured with respect and set within the context of the general support done by the team of workers and volunteers.

The film explores the rewards of turning these dogs’ lives around and is incredibly inspiring. Yet there are some heart-breaking moments alongside this to hit home the film’s important messages. And at times it’s difficult to watch, not just especially for dog-owners but for general audiences.

The film ends with an upbeat tone however with a collection of photos from many happy owners who have adopted a rescue dog showing the love and friendship that can be built out of tough beginnings.

Not shying away from confronting the harsh realities these beautiful pets find themselves in, yet also finding positivity in those who care for them, Luna ends a satisfying and loving short documentary about compassion and understanding.


Michael Sales

Check out the great work of LUOSKO here: https://www.luoskogermanshepherddogrescue.org
By midlandsmovies April 4, 2025
Molina is a new sci-fi drama short from Leicester filmmaker Richard Chambers which explores the ramifications of mind-altering technology amid tense human relationships.
By midlandsmovies April 4, 2025
St. Patrick’s Day Massacre is the latest b-movie horror from Midlands director Steve Lawson who once again delves into the past to provide new spins on established stories and lore. And this time he uses St. Patrick’s Day as a jumping off point to create a tale of historic horror encroaching on the modern day.
By midlandsmovies April 2, 2025
Leicester Square didn’t host one particular UK premiere back in the 90s - but the city of Leicester in the Midlands sure as hell did. Holy cinema, Batman!
By midlandsmovies March 22, 2025
I’ve mentioned this before in reviews for Midlands Movies; reviewing low budget, independently made films requires a change in mindset. There’s a level of compromise, with allowances made for the odd rough-around-the-edges performance or some shaky effects work.
Show More
Share by: