Duke

Inspired by a true story, this heart-warming and gut-wrenching film recounts the experience of U.S. Marine sergeant Terry Pulaski (played with understated grace by TV veteran Steven Weber), who returns from a tour of Afghanistan disabled from shrapnel in his back and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The combination ruins his marriage, his relationship with his daughter, and his ability to hold down a job and cope with life in general. Duke is a stray border collie who wanders into the Pulaski family's life and provides the comfort and companionship for Terry that he doesn't find with humans. Feeling overwhelmed and alone, Terry and Duke take to the road and live as vagabonds for ten years. When Duke falls seriously ill, a penniless Terry leaves his canine friend at a vet's office to be euthanized. In true Hallmark fashion, miracles happen and a heartbreaking event becomes a means for reconciliation, illumination, and renewed spirit. The fast pace of this story doesn't leave much opportunity for either character or plot development, yet it by no means spoils this joyful viewing experience. According to the Nielsen Ratings, Duke received the second-highest rating for an HMC premier film.