Susie's Hope (2013) User Reviews

AWESOME MOVIE

[jewelch · 9/10 · 20 April 2021]

This was such a good movie, a tearjerker but very informative. It shows how God turns all things together for good, and is in control of all details. Even with the loss of a baby, and finding a dying puppy,

This was a very good movie based on a true story. It shows how God can change horrible situations, and 'makes all things work together for good'. Romans 8:28 After the loss of a baby, to finding a burnt, dying puppy, to the miracle in the courtroom, and changing the law, one can see the above. What perseverance on the part of the rescuing family. We never will give up for we can change things and make a difference in the world. LOVED IT. James Welch Henderson Arkansas 4/17/2021.

An uplifting yet not preachy movie.

[debwales · 9/10 · 5 August 2014]

The positive messages are delivered by the action of the characters, not by hitting you over the head with Thou Shalt Nots. The acting is excellent, the dialog is intelligent. I almost wish the movie could have been a mini-series so that we could see more who these people were, where they came from, etc. And more insight into the relationship they all form -- Donna, her husband, her best friend, and Baby Girl -- prior to the arrival of Susie. And maybe more on what Donna and Susie are doing today. My only criticism is that the first view of Susie as a puppy uses a mechanical (?) animal that is unfortunately not that realistic. But that is only a small bit. Anyone who can watch this movie and not be moved to some sort of action is dead inside. You can donate to the fund or to any of your local rescue groups. Yes, no one can save the world but we can all save one tiny part of it.

An interesting film about abused dogs

[NuttyBaby · 7/10 · 13 June 2023]

The film is well told and pleasant to watch, with some horrid scenes. A pregnant woman helps a starving dog chained up in the neighbourhood by feeding it, until it lunges angrily at her. The shocking scene of this dog attack was realistic and may upset people who had experienced this before. Despite her ordeal, she later cares for an injured abandoned puppy that was tortured and left to die. The message in the film is one about caring for animals and seek to help those in need, coming together as a community to spread love and compassion. While this is really sweet, it doesn't alter the fact some people will always abuse animals and don't get punished. It also doesn't change how people are cruel to animals. Yet the film is heart warming and more should be made like this.

Heartache and Hope

[kschimmelwriter · 10/10 · 25 March 2014]

Susie's story is compelling, as is Donna Lawrence's. As a resident of Greensboro, where the events took place, I remember well the news accounts of Susie being found nearly dead from her burns and the updates on her condition as the community came together to contribute to the Guilford County Animal Shelter as they helped Susie. The community also rallied around Donna (a dog attack survivor and Susie's adoptive "mom") and Susie to change the animal cruelty laws in North Carolina.

This movie is faithful to the spirit of Donna, Susie, and other survivors and those who love them. Keep a handkerchief handy and watch this movie!

Great movie!!!

[csi1186 · 10/10 · 23 March 2014]

This is one of the best movies I have seen. Great for the whole family. A moving, inspirational and uplifting film, based on a true story. You will fall in love with Susie. Susie plays herself halfway through the movie and is a true star. Donna Lawrence's survival of a near fatal dog attack and Susie's survival of an attack by a human, and how they merge together to fight for stronger animal cruelty laws, is truly remarkable. Their bond is so strong and their faith remarkable. There are funny, sad and moving, moments, throughout the movie. Loved the real pictures at the end of the movie. I would highly recommend this movie!

Compelling Story, Grab a Tissue

[megmcconnell86 · 5 August 2014]

As an animal lover who has 3 rescue dogs and 1 foster pup right now, I give a huge thumbs up to Susie's Hope. Such a compelling story of overcoming adversity and breed prejudice. This movie is so important to show how we as humans get second chances but animals, now a days (especially pit bulls/mixes) get the short end of the stick. Through Donna's bravery and refusal to take no for an answer, she was able to make a huge strides on the immediate need for animal rights reform. I could not be happier that Susie's story is now being told on the national stage. She and Donna are an inspiration to all. I will watch this movie over and over again.

Puppies are people too, you know...

[shiannedog · 7/10 · 3 May 2021]

This is actually an effective and well made movie in it's own way. The fact that it is based on a true story helps a lot to make it believable. The acting was well done and it kept my interest all the way through the wiping of the tears. The guitar player at the vigil was a bit much but overall the film touched my heart and made me thankful for people who care enough to carry a burden much further than just sentiment. Thank you for making this movie.

Must See Movie

[hpadell1 · 10/10 · 5 August 2014]

This is a very touching and beautiful story of how tragic events were turned into an ever lasting love. I would highly recommend this move to everyone especially those who love and care for animals. This movie has inspired me and given me hope that there are still good and caring people in this world that can be so harsh at time. It was so beautiful to watch how after all Donna had suffered and lost she still had the love in her heart to care again. I cried many a tear while watching Susie's Hope both sorrow and joy. This is one of those movies that you will watch many times over. I loved the fact that an entire town was brought together and gave of their hearts. This is definitely a must see movie that you will never forget.

A Much Needed Message!

[blueiris2u · 10/10 · 4 August 2014]

I have had the honor of working with, and on behalf of, shelter animals. I was also fortunate enough to receive the love of a Pitt Bull. Whenever we went out for a walk, without fail, some adults who would inquire about her breed would give us "The Look", as I like to call it. Even though, my girl was happily wagging her tail, and ready to give kisses and receive pets, she was automatically viewed as a threat. Funny how all the children in our development would come running to receive those kisses! Susie's Hope is an incredible movie about some amazing folks who could be our next door neighbors. Donna Lawrence endured a horror none of us could even imagine; a Pitt Bull attack. Yet, Donna was able to have the grace and understanding to realize that the dog was not to blame, but the people who were supposed to care for him, and instead betrayed and neglected him.

While most of us would live the rest of our lives in fear, Donna not only walked with courage, but with love. Her rescue of the burned and beaten, puppy, Susie is an imperative message for us all. We turn on the TV, and/or go to the movies and are surrounded by violence, and images of a world in peril. Susie's Hope does just that. It shows us how to walk in the light by the power of love, and with hope and love all things are possible! Watch this with your family, friends and companion animals!

Wonderful story that needed to be told!

[pmk70 · 10/10 · 4 August 2014]

I highly recommend this heartwarming story of love, forgiveness & justice for all living creatures! We need more of this kind of positive, compassionate message in the world! It is difficult to understand how anyone could abuse an innocent animal so cruelly but so important to shine a light on this cruelty so it can be stopped and punished. Donna and all who fight for justice are true heroes. We can not change the world overnight...but we can each change our little corner of it. Watching Susie's Hope reminds us of the potential for heroism in each of us and helps inspire us to do whatever it is we can do to "fight the good fight".

okay story, didn't like the idea that an african american is the bad guy

[kimward-14211 · 3/10 · 2 January 2021]

It was okay enough to watch until they chose to have the person that hurt the puppy as an african american man. All the main characters are white and somewhat christian...so typical to make the criminal an african american man...really? Once I saw that, I turned it off and will not be finish watching the movie.

Susie's Hope is a heartfelt representation of reality

[perezoo · 10/10 · 5 August 2014]

Having worked with a veterinarian for many years, I have seen, first hand, both the good and the bad in many breeds of dog as well as the people handling them. Susie's Hope doesn't sugar coat reality and I was very pleased to see the emphasis on proper handling and socialization that all dogs need in order to be safe and manageable. Love alone is not enough to make an animal into a good companion. Not just a story of abuse and redemption, this is a beautiful representation of how our relationships with animals touch not just our lives, but also the lives of others. It demonstrates how we are drawn to causes that can sometimes make no sense to the people closest to us. Superb acting brings truth to this with real human reactions to fears and misunderstandings. I will be watching for these actors in upcoming projects! I highly recommend Susie's Hope for the entire family. It made me laugh. It made me cry. It made me feel hopeful and inspired.

Susie's Hope Will Leave You Hopeful!

[jessicamorgan11288 · 10/10 · 5 August 2014]

Susie's Hope was a wonderful, heartwarming story based on the lives of Susie and Donna. You will absolutely need a box of tissues as you will be streaming tears of sadness and joy throughout the film. It is very well done, easy to watch and brings to light a lot of issues within the legal system as well as the horrors of human kind. Anyone can relate to the film and should be seen by everyone. What happened to Susie happens to dogs all over the world and understanding that we as compassionate humans need to speak up for those who have no voice and protect animals because they are all innocent and just need to be loved. A definite MUST SEE for all ages!

Heartbreaking and a Happy Ending for Susie

[e-bath · 10/10 · 5 August 2014]

This movie was heartbreaking, but inspirational. It is my hope it will bring awareness and stricter laws in all states. I am so thankful Susie survived this horrendous abuse, is loved, and a spokes dog for animal cruelty. Although Donna was severely injured by a pit bull, she knew the dog didn't do it out of meaness, but because of irresponsible and ignorant owners. You don't just tie a dog up and expect him to be social and behave around adults and children, or other animals. Donna has a loving heart, and she and Susie are an inspiration to everyone in working towards an end to the cycle of animal abuse.

Thank you for all the love and dedication that went into making this movie a reality.