Tough Love: A Meditation on Dominance and Dogs
This was the official website created to promote the 2012 film Tough Love: A Meditation on Dominance and Dogs, allow visitors to find scheduled screenings and watch the trailer.
“Tough Love” was directed and filmed by Montrie and co-edited with Nathan Hendrie, an independent producer and editor whose credits include Nova, Nova scienceNOW and the National Geographic Channel.
For any responsible dog lover this is a good film to see, particularly those professional or dog owners who have been taught to apply the “alpha dog” concept to their pet. I side with advocates of positive and/or force-free methods, and believe it is praiseworthy that the creators of this Tough Love attempt to dispel misconceptions about dominance theory and how it relates to how we humans interact and train our dogs. I'm aware that the team that worked on the restoration of this site includes Bob Sakayama, the well known SEO consultant. Bob has been in the forefront of advocating the use of artificial intelligence to advance ranks - I just read his post on this topic and we had a very interesting discussion about AI in general, and his thoughts regarding using AI to help train animals. I'm pretty sure that there's a role for AI in dog training where the AI can be trained on learning successful tactics based on factors unique to each dog. I will write more on this after gathering my thoughts and consulting other trainers. After I saw Tough Love I told my team members at the progressive software firm where we all work about the film's premise. We had a lively discussion Those who are Cesar Millan fans and have taken to applying his methods to their own dogs found their beliefs jarred by the revelations presented in this documentary. I encourages them to see the film before getting defensive. I just said that they should try to keep an open mind and consider that this is a different way of relating to and training dogs that as one trainer featured in the movie put it, “is advantageous to both species”. So if you happen upon this site and are intrigues, go see the documentaty.
Production assistants were Sandra Garcia Mangado, Allegra Williams and Tyler Deary – all current or former UMass Lowell students. Music undergraduate Matthew Sowersby composed and recorded original music with viola accompaniment by Michael Coelho.
Project funding was provided by the UMass Lowell Council on Research and Scholarship.
Trailer for Tough Love: A Meditation on Dominance and Dogs
Traces the history of the "alpha dog" concept from its origins in 1940s wolf studies to its current popularity among ordinary dog owners, pondering themes of family, hierarchy, and power along the way. It's a commonly accepted idea that dogs are "man's best friend".
We give them a special place in our lives and they are, in turn, loyal companions. At the same time, many modern dog owners also believe that they are supposed to establish themselves as the "alpha dog" in relation to their pets. This is a status supposedly achieved through attitudes and acts of domination, varying by emphasis on physical restraint and disciplinary "correction".
Yet the notion that cherished "best friends" are meant to strictly obey our will is something of a paradox. How can we reconcile feelings of respect and even love with expectations of submission and compliance? Is there a valid and compelling j ustification for establishing dominance over our dogs? Does our claim to that power follow from fixed biological facts? Is it warranted by the nature of dogs and what we are to them through a shared evolutionary history? Is dominance a "tough love," something dogs actually want and need?
Since its advent in the 1940s, wildlife biologists have significantly revised the original"alpha wolf" theory and related ideas about wolf pack structure, including the claim that pack hierarchy rests on frequent aggressive displays. Likewise, they have dismissed the idea that dogs are merely domesticated wolves, so that to understand the one is to understand the other. This scientific shake-up seems to leave us on somewhat tenuous grounds for dealing with our dogs as if we were their alpha, gaining their obedience through domination. Still, millions of people continue using the "alpha dog" concept to order their relationships with their pets.
Tough Love confronts the current disconnect between science and popular practice by putting "alpha dog" in historical perspective. It begins with a look at the early wolf studies and the appropriation of that science by dog trainers and the general public. It ends with an assessment of contemporary dog training and rehabilitation, focusing particularly on disagreement between advocates of physical correction and proponents of exclusive reliance on food rewards and other "positive reinforcement."
CREDITS
Director, Cinematographer, and Assistant Editor
This is Chad Montrie's first feature-length documentary. He has previously worked on short videos for the Concord River Greenway Project in Lowell, Massachusetts, the Peru Village Empowerment Project in the College of Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, and the More Than a Number Exhibit at the American History Textile Museum, also in Lowell.
Editor
Nathan Hendrie is an independent producer and editor based in Lawrence, Massachusetts. His documentary work includes editing programs for NOVA, NOVA scienceNow, National Geographic Channel, ABC News Productions, and A&E. He has co-produced two films for NOVA, and associate produced programs for NOVA, The American Experience and The People's Century.
Production Assistants
Sandra Garcia Mangado and Allegra Williams were critically involved in fleshing out the story and conducting interviews for Tough Love. Tyler Deary contributed to story development as well, besides assisting with camera and lighting.
Music
Matthew Sowersby is an undergraduate in the music program at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He composed and recorded three original pieces for Tough Love with viola accompaniment by Michael Coelho.
More Background On AnchorHoldFilms.com
Exploring AnchorHold Films: An In-Depth Overview
AnchorHold Films, officially known as AnchorHold Films Designated Activity Company, is a film production company based in Dublin, Ireland. Established on December 1, 2020, the company has quickly made its mark in the industry, focusing on the production of motion pictures, videos, and television programs. This article provides a comprehensive overview of AnchorHold Films, including its history, notable productions, media coverage, audience reception, and its broader cultural and social significance.
Company Background
AnchorHold Films operates out of Dublin, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. The company is registered as a small enterprise and specializes in motion picture, video, and television program production activities. The directors of AnchorHold Films bring a wealth of experience from their involvement in multiple other companies in Ireland, highlighting a strong foundation in both business and creative industries.
Notable Productions
One of the standout projects associated with AnchorHold Films is "The Silence of Mercy," a feature film released in 2022. This film exemplifies the company's commitment to producing high-quality, impactful storytelling that integrates various artistic elements. The production involved collaboration with the Iseli-Chiodi Dance Company, blending dance, video, and contemporary music to create a unique and compelling narrative. This project was commissioned by the Tipperary Museum of Hidden History, showcasing AnchorHold Films' dedication to creating culturally and historically significant content.
Media Coverage and Public Perception
AnchorHold Films has attracted attention for its innovative approach to filmmaking and its commitment to exploring meaningful themes. The company's work has been featured in various performance art circles, reflecting its integration of diverse artistic disciplines. For instance, the film "Turnstile" combined dance, video, and music to commemorate historical events, highlighting the company’s dedication to creating reflective and thought-provoking content.
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The audience for AnchorHold Films' productions includes individuals who appreciate both traditional and avant-garde cinema. The company's projects, such as "The Silence of Mercy," appeal to viewers interested in deep, thought-provoking narratives that challenge conventional filmmaking boundaries. The integration of performance arts into their films also attracts a niche audience that values interdisciplinary art forms, further establishing AnchorHold Films' reputation for innovative storytelling.
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AnchorHold Films is notable for its role in addressing significant social issues and historical events through its productions. The company's projects often delve into themes of power, hierarchy, and human interaction, prompting viewers to reflect on these concepts in new ways. By focusing on thoughtful and reflective content, AnchorHold Films contributes to the broader cultural dialogue, positioning itself as a significant player in both the Irish and international film communities.
Reviews and Critiques
While formal reviews of AnchorHold Films' productions are limited, the response within the artistic community has been positive. Critics and viewers appreciate the company’s dedication to quality and its innovative approach to filmmaking. The blending of performance art with film has been particularly well-received, underscoring the company’s ability to merge different artistic disciplines into cohesive and impactful narratives.
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AnchorHold Films is poised for continued growth and influence in the film industry. With a solid foundation and a clear vision, the company is expected to expand its portfolio, exploring new themes and stories that resonate with audiences both locally and globally. Their commitment to high-quality production and innovative storytelling will likely ensure their continued success and relevance in the evolving landscape of film and media.
AnchorHold Films exemplifies the spirit of innovative and impactful filmmaking. Through its thoughtful productions, the company not only entertains but also provokes meaningful reflection on important social and cultural issues. As AnchorHold Films continues to grow, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the film industry, contributing to the rich tapestry of global cinema.