3D STAR DOGS HIT THE SILVER SCREEN

rt.com
03.11.2010

In 1960 the first-ever space travelers – the dogs Belka and Strelka – safely returned to Earth. This year, the 50th anniversary of their famous flight, is marked with the release of an animated 3D movie in their honor.

Made with the use of latest animation technologies, the story of the outstanding mutts still maintains the charm of the best Soviet cartoon-making traditions. The characters teach the viewers to be kind, fair, and courageous, not to be afraid of enemies, not to give in to difficulties. After all, only the best will go to space and become "star dogs". The authenticity of the script was already ascertained by true space professionals – cosmonauts who saw the movie prior to the premiere.

Belka and Strelka were the first living creatures who safely returned to Earth from space. They made a flight onboard a prototype of a Soviet "Vostok" spaceship and spent 24 hours in zero gravity from August 19 to August 20, 1960.

The story, which describes the beginning of the space era, is told from the perspective of the Star Dogs. According to their interpretation, it was not only Belka and Strelka that were lucky enough to become space travelers, but also the entire company of their friends.

Director Svyatoslav Ushakov tells a story about the life of two mutts who never suspected that their names would go down in history. One works in the circus, the other wanders the streets in search of a livelihood. One fine day a circus rocket with Belka behind the wheel lands next to Strelka and her rat-friend Venya. According to the script, the history of outer-space exploration begins with this meeting.

The film will probably be screened outside Russia as well, but for now enjoy the movie on the Russian silver screens starting on March 18.