The Grand Illusion

A headstrong and experimental feature, THERAPY DOGS is more than a coming-of-age film, it's a time capsule for the rebellious. For the ones that pushed the boundaries when deciding to leave their childhood behind.

Ethan and his best friend Justin are students trying to make sense of their high school existence. In what will be the last chapter of their teenage lives and the beginning of adulthood beyond, they decide to make the ultimate senior video in their search for answers. Exploring teenage suburbia in a no-brakes adventure, questions arise regarding whether there's more to their lives than simply growing up.

THERAPY DOGS is part of our Slamdance Showcase, featuring three notable narrative features from last year's Slamdance Film Festival. Since 1995, the Slamdance Film Festival has served to spotlight emerging artists in the world of moviemaking and the Slamdance name has become synonymous with true independent spirit.

Director Ethan Eng is the youngest person to ever present work at Slamdance and won the Russo brothers’ AGBO Fellowship award at the festival!

“Look at Therapy Dogs as a cautionary tale, one bound to horrify unaware parents. Eng doesn’t seem to give a f**k whether you respond to it or not. Good for him.” Alex Saveliev, Film Threat

“Therapy Dogs is, at once, a war cry, a manifesto, and an absolute jewel for those of us who love the energy and intensity of true indie filmmaking.” Alexandra Heller-Nicholas, Alliance of Women Film Journalists

CRITIC’S PICK! “A raw, impressionistic portrait of high school as it’s happening. Or, at least, as it’s experienced by teenage boys in a Canadian suburb, in all their wayward hooliganism.” Brandon Yu, The New York Times