Sirius Screenplay

Originally posted by Shepaluteprez on July 9, 2007.

A screenwriter has decided to write a screenplay about a book called Sirius. The book's about a mastiff/shepherd/great Dane cross dog who's very intelligent. I guess there are many adventures in the story with this dog. The screenwriter was looking at the Alsatian Shepalute as the dog he envisioned for this movie, but then moved toward the Shiloh Shepherd instead. It was a fascinating process to read about as he thought about the perfect dog to play Sirius. He ultimately liked the regal and majestic qualities he saw in the Shiloh Shepherds. But, what fascinates me more is that he found the Alsatian Shepalute before he even knew of the Shiloh Shepherd. I guess he must have checked to see if there were any dogs with the above mix first. He is super nice and I really wish him luck on his journey.

Unfortunately, he found that Sirius was public domain and is now worried that another will pick up the book and write a miniseries or TV movie before he has a chance to get his movie made. But, one never knows. Perhaps it will still happen.

I'd like to know what you all think about the Alsatian Shepalute being in a movie, not necessarily this one. But, this potential movie sparked some initial interest in the Alsatian Shepalute. The screenwriter had some reservations as to whether the dog could perform the working qualities that Sirius was supposed to have had. Do you think that the Alsatian Shepalute would be good in a movie? What about the exposure to the Alsatian Shepalute a movie would bring?

Originally posted by Shepaluteprez on July 25, 2007.

Marc, the screenwriter for Sirius: the Screenplay asked about the Alsatian Shepalute's working drive. Here's what I wrote him:

When reading through I came across your question about working instinct in the Alsatian Shepalute and it fascinated me. Indeed, the high drive of a working dog has been bred out, but an image came to mind as I was thinking about it. There are three kinds of driven dog I picture here. First, there is the dog that yaps and barks at anything, will chase wildly and has no discipline. Then, there is the dog who looks toward its master and seemingly asks through endless energetic body movement "Please, oh please, can we go now? Huh? Please. I really want to go. I'll do anything. Just point me in the right direction etc..." Last, there is the quiet dog who looks at its master with silent willingness. All three have courage, strength and extreme willingness. I do not know or have ever seen the personality of the Shiloh Shepherd. The picture you have chosen does indeed look regal and majestic. But, I do know of the Alsatian Shepalute character and personality. They are solidly in the third category of dog, quiet and serene even in the most unpredictable situations, but their willingness to please and do for their owner is quite high.

As far as really herding sheep, hmm, not sure. But as far as performing the tricks and duties in order to get a movie made about a herding dog of superior intelligence and courage...I think so, easily. However, if image is all you are thinking of at the moment, then I agree with Lois that I don't see a German Shepherd type dog. I do not even see the gray Alsatian Shepalute when I think of Sirius as you've described.

It is interesting to watch the progression of your endeavor. I enjoy reading about the steps it takes for you to make and promote your movie. Good luck and I can't wait to see it!