This is a film from Japan, originally titled “Inu to Kanojo no 10 no Yakusoku”. The mainland China title is “The 10 Promises to My Dog”, the Hong Kong title is “The 10 Promises with My Retriever”, and the Taiwan title is “The 10 Promises with My Dog”. I watched it today, and even someone like me who rarely cries couldn’t hold back the tears; it made me think for a long time. A dog lives only about ten years; we have school, friends, lovers, and colleagues, but a dog has only its owner for its whole life. Have we ever thought about the companion who spends a lifetime with us? I hope that when you no longer feel lonely, you’ll think of the friend who once kept you company — a dog’s life is short, so cherish the time with it.
Synopsis
When Akari is 12, the mother who loved her most falls ill and goes to the hospital. Young Akari tries hard to pull herself together. Just then, a lovely puppy arrives at Akari’s home and quickly wins her heart, becoming her best friend. Because the puppy’s paws look like it’s wearing socks, Akari gives it a fun name — “Socks”. Every day Socks keeps Akari company through the days after losing her mother, and Akari dotes on Socks. But as Akari grows up, she makes new friends and picks up new interests, and moves away from home for school; gradually she and Socks drift apart… Until one day, she suddenly remembers the ten promises between her and “Socks”.
10 Promises
- Regrettably, the time I spend with you is only about ten years.
- To understand each other better, please give us enough time together.
- Please talk to me more, okay?
- Don’t fight or hit me, because I don’t want to bite you.
- When I’m being naughty, there’s always a reason. Before you scold me, please think about what you did to me.
- Please trust me, because I am always your companion and I’m with you always.
- You have school and friends, but for me, I have only you.
- Even when I get old and am no longer as cute, please don’t abandon me.
- The years I spend with you, I will never forget.
- When I leave this world, please watch me go. With you by my side, I can travel happily to heaven. So, please never forget — I have always loved you.
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The 10 Promises to My Dog[/caption]