SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL 2024 REVIEW! “Journey to Purpose” is the opening episode of the mini-docuseries Dog Spelled Backwards. The series centers around an eclectic and Renaissance-type person, Tim Almedia. He’s a multi-instrumentalist, a black belt in Jiu-Jitsu, and a professional breakdancer. But most of all, Tim is a dog trainer. Initially moving to Los Angeles to pursue music, Tim discovered a passion for dog training through his dog and best friend, Tipsy. Despite the muti-interests of Tim, the center of his life has been providing a better life for the dogs he loves and sharing those dogs with the world.
“…providing a better life for the dogs he loves…”
Dog Spelled Backwards allows Tim to tell his story and dive into the story of the dogs he trains. Working with dogs is a philosophical experience for Tim. Each training session or moment working with these animals brings further enlightenment and joy into Tim’s life. Director Richie “Abstrak” Soto captures these inspirational moments by allowing Tim to elaborate on his relationship with each dog while featuring tons of footage of each dog bringing positivity to Tim’s worldview. At about 22 minutes in run-time, “Journey to Purpose is an inspirational episode that leaves plenty to explore in further installments.
Almeida and Roto will leave dog lovers inspired and wanting more with the opening of Dog Spelled Backwards. The episode has some good information about strays and animal shelters on title cards, but the cards need more connection to the overall narrative. Still, Tim has a stoic charisma that translates well to the episode, bringing the emotional clarity vital for an inspiring documentary. “Journey to Purpose” strikes at the heart of how a person can create a powerful impact on a dog’s life and, more so, how a dog can change a person’s life.
Dog Spelled Backwards screened at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival.
"…will leave dog lovers inspired..."
