Stray Dog

Academy Award®-nominated writer/director Debra Granik met Ron “Stray Dog” Hall, the subject of her latest documentary, while filming “Winter’s Bone” in rural Missouri. To the unacquainted, this white-bearded, tattooed, portly 67-year-old may appear to be a stereotypical rough-and-tumble biker. But Ron gave up being angry years ago. Instead, this Vietnam veteran spends much of his time helping other vets and their families get back on their feet. While Ron still grapples with the psychological traumas of war on a daily basis, he remains a pillar of strength for his close-knit community. He is learning Spanish for his immigrant wife Alicia and supports her efforts to reunite with her twin sons. He encourages his pregnant granddaughter to get an education. And he assists his neighbors in receiving appropriate healthcare, all while taking loving care of his small pups. Granik’s lyrical and captivating STRAY DOG offers viewers a candid glimpse into the world of one veteran and his search for peace. (In English and Spanish with subtitles) – E.B.