The next new film at the Tennessee Aquarium Imax 3D Theater will introduce audiences to a group of extraordinary canines. Beginning Friday, Oct. 11, "Superpower Dogs 3D" will be shown at noon and 4 p.m. daily in the Imax.
According to the American Pet Products Association, 60 million homes - about half of American families - have a dog in residence. Despite dogs being a daily part of life for so many people, "Superpower Dogs 3D" will offer insights into these astounding animals that will make even diehard puplovers see their four-legged friends in a new light.
"Hopefully, audiences are moved to learn more about their pets and the amazing things dogs can do," the filmmakers write in "Superpower Dogs 3D's" production notes.
"Part of the message is that the right dog paired with the right human is what makes the superhero team work. It's about the bond between us that is the product of thousands of years of co-habitation."
If you go
› What: “Superpower Dogs 3”› Where: Tennessee Aquarium Imax Theater, 201 Chestnut St.› When: Noon and 4 p.m., daily begining Friday, Oct. 11› Admission: $11.95 adults, $9.95 children ages 3-12› For more information: www.tnaqua.orgSneak PreviewGuests can get a sneak preview of “Superpower Dogs 3D” at a special pre-launch party Thursday, Oct. 10, at 6:30 p.m. After screening the film, audience members will want to stick around for a parade of local Superpower Dogs. These working dogs are four-legged heroes who serve a variety of important roles in the community.Register for the premiere at www.tnaqua.org/events-programs.
The film's featured pooches could easily give The Avengers a run for their money.
* Dutch shepherd puppy Halo is being trained to be an expert at search and rescue. When she's older, if she passes her certification exam, Halo's bark will be a sweet sound to anyone trapped in collapsed buildings after a natural disaster.
* Border collie Henry dons a special pair of ski goggles and a warm harness to brave the treacherous powder near British Columbia as a specialist in avalanche rescue. No stranger to helicopters, snowmobiles or even chairlifts, he has a knack for making his way to wherever he's needed.
* Newfoundland Reef puts her breed's celebrated love of swimming to use as a water rescue expert, able to swim for miles and often while towing many times her own weight.
* Golden retriever Ricochet uses a finely tuned sense of intuition and empathy to offer support to those in need of her services as a therapy dog. Also, she's kind of a big deal in the California surfing scene.
* Twin bloodhounds Tony and Tipper work together with the Kenyan Wildlife Service to protect animals, especially endangered rhinoceroses and African elephants, living on the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Using their breed's legendary tracking abilities, this duo has located missing persons and contributed to the arrest and prosecution of more than 40 poachers and other criminals.
"Superpower Dogs 3D" is narrated Chris Evans, whom superhero fans will recognize as the wielder of Captain America's star-spangled shield in the Marvel cinematic universe. Evans also provided voiceover work for Henry.
"I am really happy to be part of 'Superpower Dogs,'" Evans says. "I am a proud dog owner and completely understand the connection that humans have with these remarkable animals. I love the way this film highlights incredible working dogs who utilize their real-life superpowers to help and protect people."
For more information about "Superpower Dogs 3D," visit www.tnaqua.org/imax/superpower-dogs.