A Dog’s Show Returns
One of Aotearoa’s most iconic television series, A Dog’s Show, is making a comeback - this time as a family feature film, directed by Alex Galvin and produced by Celia Jaspers, Mark Westerby, and executive producer Timothy White.
Set in 1970s rural New Zealand, the film tells the story of Jack, a retired sheepdog triallist played by Graham McTavish (Outlander, The Hobbit), who is coaxed back into competition by his spirited granddaughter. Together with their loyal dogs, they take on one final trial to save the family farm.
Filming will take place in the Wellington region, with authentic sheepdog trial sequences choreographed by New Zealand’s top experts in the sport.
Originally aired from 1977 to 1992, A Dog’s Show captivated generations of Kiwis with its Sunday night blend of rural landscapes, strategic whistle commands, and tense sheep-herding competition. Hosted by the legendary John Gordon, the show became a symbol of rustic charm and unpretentious entertainment.
The film adaptation promises to honour that spirit while introducing a new, character-driven narrative full of heart, humour, and intergenerational connection.
“One of my fondest childhood memories was watching A Dog’s Show every Sunday night with my family,” says director Alex Galvin. “With this film, I want to honour that simplicity and charm while telling a story full of warmth, humour and heart.”
It’s a project that blends classic Kiwi storytelling with contemporary cinematic craftsmanship - an ideal fit for crew who love working with real environments, real animals, and real heart.
While the film draws from the past, it also speaks to today’s audiences - celebrating rural identity, community, and the bond between humans and animals.
It’s a rare chance to work on a film that’s both deeply local and widely accessible, with strong appeal to domestic audiences and the potential to resonate internationally.
Whether you grew up with the show or are discovering it for the first time, A Dog’s Show is a return to form - Kiwi storytelling at its most grounded and genuine.
