My Dog Tulip at Film Forum

J.R. Ackerley never considered himself a dog lover. Then, in middle-age, he adopted a beautiful, yet difficult 18-month-old German Shepherd. To his surprise, she became the love of his life.

Ackerley recorded his man-and-beast love story in a 1956 memoir, which filmmakers Paul and Sandra Fierlinger have brought to life in "My Dog Tulip," an animated interpretation of Ackerley’s story. "My Dog Tulip" will have its world theatrical premiere at the Film Forum from September 1-14 before going into wide release. Click here for tickets and showtimes.

Join Us
Rational Animal will be on hand during weekend screenings to inform and educate filmgoers about shelter animals in need, and will have pets available for adoption from Animal Haven. Volunteers will also be handing out copies of our popular Trails to Tails map, a guide to dog parks, shelters and low cost animal care and services in all 5 boroughs.

More About the Film
Christopher Plummer gives voice to the unflappable, wry Ackerley and the late, great Lynn Redgrave is the sister who comes to share his flat and vie with him for the dog's loyalty. Isabella Rossellini is Tulip's sensitive and sensible veterinarian. The Fierlingers' animated designs combine naturalism and visual wit; their profound feelings for both dog and man are unmatched by conventional doggie cartooning. "My Dog Tulip" is the first animated feature to be entirely hand drawn and painted, utilizing paperless computer technology. It was an official selection of the 2009 Toronto International Film Festival.

Related Link:
Still Life With Animated Dogs, a previous film by Paul Fierlinger