The Dog

The Dog is a 2013 documentary film directed by Allison Berg and Frank Keraudren that chronicles the life and times of John Wojtowicz, the infamous bank robber whose story inspired the classic Al Pacino film, Dog Day Afternoon. The film takes a deep dive into the life of Wojtowicz, exploring his early years, his activism within the LGBTQ+ community, and his fateful decision to rob a bank in order to fund his lover's gender reassignment surgery.

The documentary features extensive interviews with Wojtowicz himself, as well as with his family members, friends, and various law enforcement personnel involved in his case. Wojtowicz emerges as a complex, charismatic figure - deeply flawed yet irresistibly compelling. Throughout the film, he speaks candidly about his life, his loves, and his motivations for robbing the bank.

One of the most fascinating aspects of The Dog is its exploration of Wojtowicz's queer identity. Wojtowicz was a proud gay man who was active in the early days of the Gay Liberation Front in New York City. He participated in many protests and demonstrations, including the famous Stonewall riots of 1969. The film shows how Wojtowicz's activism influenced his decision to rob the bank - he saw it as a way to make a bold statement about the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community.

Another key theme of The Dog is the question of whether Wojtowicz was a hero or a villain. The film doesn't shy away from his criminal actions - indeed, much of it is dedicated to recounting the details of the bank robbery and its aftermath. However, it also portrays Wojtowicz as a larger-than-life figure who refused to be constrained by society's norms and conventions. His love for his partner, Liz Eden, is also depicted in a poignant manner, as he desperately sought a way to fund her gender reassignment surgery at a time when such procedures were not covered by insurance.

Overall, The Dog is a compelling and thought-provoking film that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of America's most notorious criminals. The documentary is expertly crafted, with a mix of archival footage, talking-head interviews, and reenactments that keep the viewer engaged and invested in the story. While the film doesn't necessarily provide any clear answers about Wojtowicz's actions or motivations, it offers plenty of material for discussion and debate. Anyone interested in true crime or LGBTQ+ history will find The Dog to be a worthwhile viewing experience.