A sturdy, emotionally effective survival adventure with a strong canine centerpiece and a sincere old-fashioned Disney uplift. It’s not especially subtle, but the winter peril, the bond between man and dog, and Willem Dafoe’s grounded performance make it an easy recommendation for family viewing and dog-movie fans.
Togo
Where to watch: Buy
Movie · Adventure · Family
Fri · 1h 53m
Director: Ericson Core
Starring: Willem Dafoe, Julianne Nicholson, Christopher Heyerdahl
Overview
The untold true story set in the winter of 1925 that takes you across the treacherous terrain of the Alaskan tundra for an exhilarating and uplifting adventure that will test the strength, courage and determination of one man, Leonhard Seppala, and his lead sled dog, Togo.
Director
Ericson Core
Cast
Willem Dafoe, Julianne Nicholson, Christopher Heyerdahl
Curator Review
Verdict
A sturdy, emotionally effective survival adventure with a strong canine centerpiece and a sincere old-fashioned Disney uplift. It’s not especially subtle, but the winter peril, the bond between man and dog, and Willem Dafoe’s grounded performance make it an easy recommendation for family viewing and dog-movie fans.
Best for
dog lovers
family audiences
survival-adventure fans
viewers who like true stories
people seeking an emotional tearjerker
Skip if
you want a fast-paced action movie
you dislike sentimental storytelling
you’re looking for deep historical complexity
animal peril is a dealbreaker
Overview
Togo is the kind of movie that knows exactly what it is: a rugged, heartfelt adventure built around endurance, loyalty, and the near-mythic bond between a musher and his lead dog. Ericson Core stages the Alaskan winter as a genuine obstacle rather than a postcard backdrop, and the film gets a lot of mileage out of physical hardship, weather, and the sheer effort of moving through that landscape.
Worth noting
Willem Dafoe gives the story its weathered center, playing Leonhard Seppala with restraint and warmth instead of grandstanding. The movie’s emotional power comes less from plot twists than from accumulation: the training, the danger, the trust, and the repeated proof that the dog is not just a pet but the heart of the mission.
Bottom line
It does lean into Disney sentiment, and some viewers may find the structure familiar or a little too polished. But if you’re in the mood for a sincere, family-friendly survival tale that earns its tears, Togo is a very good dog movie and a better-than-expected one at that.
Top Letterboxd reviews
Christopher · 1378 likes
"Fuck Balto! That son of a bitch barely did shit" - This movie, 2019
Nicholas Faron (3.5★) · 667 likes
This is what Disney should start focusing on. Telling original stories that speak to the heart and deliver on an emotional ride. Stop with the live action remakes please.
ty (4★) · 406 likes
Willem Dafoe and puppies it was an automatic yes from me! That final moment made my cry it’s so beautiful. I won’t spoil it but what Willem said just got to me 🥺😭
Hailli (4★) · 192 likes
Humans don’t deserve dogs. And isn’t that the most beautiful gift of all.