Jonathan Burt analyzes on the the very first animal hero films ever made entitled, Rescued by Rover (Hepworth, 1905). The theme of this film involves a pet collie, Rover that acts as the families protector. The nanny goes on a walk with a family's baby and loses the child during her stroll. When she returns home without the baby in hand, loss and suspicion arise. Rover immediately takes on an authoritative role and goes out searching for the baby. Rover then gets the father's attention and forces him to follow, leading him to the baby to bring her home.
The relationship between Rover and the father illustrates trust and understanding. With a silent film in particular such as Rescued by Rover, actions have to say everything. As Rover retraces his path three times to affirm where the baby is located, he is exemplifying strength and persistence-- both traits in which dogs are recognized and admired for; a reason why many families opt to get a family dog. Rover is the only figure on the film who "understands" as much as the camera (116). Burt describes these themes as mechanical (the pursuit) and the non-mechanical (the possibility of a common understanding outside language) come together without actually collapsing into each other (117). Essentially, this is a perfect example of human-animal relationships. In particular how a connection can be discerned through a pet dog and owner. A connection so strong working together, they are able to save their baby, and live happily ever after. :)
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