Name: Rescued by Ruby
Genre: Family, Drama
Released: 2022-03-17T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Grant Gustin, Scott Wolf, Kaylah Zander, Camille Sullivan, Tom McBeath

The moment Ruby wiggles free from her restraints, disturbing a bee’s nest in a chaotic flurry of fur and panic, you know exactly what you’re in for with Rescued by Ruby. This is a film that wears its heart on its sleeve, unapologetically leaning into the feel-good tropes of the family drama genre. Directed by Katt Shea and based on a true story, it follows Rhode Island state trooper Daniel O’Neil (Grant Gustin), who partners with a hyperactive shelter pup named Ruby in a last-ditch effort to join an elite K-9 unit.

What works here is the undeniable charm of the central duo. Gustin, best known for his role as The Flash, brings a grounded earnestness to Dan, a character burdened by dyslexia and hyperactivity but driven by an unyielding determination. His chemistry with Bear, the real-life rescue dog playing Ruby, is genuine and often delightful. Their training montages—filled with slapstick mishaps and tender moments—are the film’s strongest suits. Shea’s direction shines in these sequences, capturing the nuanced dynamics between human and canine, making their bond feel authentic.

The film also excels in its positive messaging, emphasizing themes of perseverance, companionship, and the transformative power of believing in oneself (and one’s dog). The supporting cast, particularly Camille Sullivan as Pat Inman and Scott Wolf as Sergeant Matt Zarrella, add depth to the narrative with their nuanced performances. The emotional beats hit hard, especially when Ruby’s intuitive abilities prove crucial in real-life search-and-rescue scenarios.

However, Rescued by Ruby isn’t without its flaws. The pacing occasionally stumbles, particularly during the middle act, where the training sequences start to feel repetitive. While Gustin’s performance is solid, his character sometimes veers into clichéd territory, making him a bit one-dimensional. Additionally, the film’s reliance on familiar tropes means it rarely ventures into uncharted emotional or narrative territory.

That said, Rescued by Ruby delivers exactly what it promises: a heartwarming tale of redemption and partnership. It’s a film that understands its audience and plays to their expectations with a deft hand.

Tags: family, Grant Gustin, Katt Shea, Kaylah Zander, Rescued by Ruby, Scott Wolf