I Wish I Was A Dog

When a young woman, filled with passion and ambition, expresses her heartfelt desire to become a true and valued member of her favorite art club, she unexpectedly finds herself transformed into a dog. This whimsical twist of fate introduces her to a unique and challenging dynamic with the club members, who now see her through a completely different lens. As she navigates her new canine existence, she must confront the complexities of her relationships with the other artists, who are oblivious to her true identity and struggle to communicate her thoughts and emotions effectively. The film, titled "I Wish I Was a Dog," is a delightful Canadian short comedy that is skillfully directed by Katherine Costal. It explores themes of identity, belonging, and the often-humorous misunderstandings that arise from viewing the world from a different perspective.

The protagonist, now in the body of a dog, experiences life in a way she never imagined, encountering both the joys and challenges of being a pet. She learns to appreciate the simple pleasures of life, such as the thrill of chasing after a ball or the warmth of a sunny spot on the floor, while also grappling with the limitations imposed by her new form. As the story unfolds, the young woman discovers that her transformation allows her to observe the art club from a fresh angle, revealing the quirks and eccentricities of her fellow members. She witnesses their creative processes, their struggles, and their triumphs, all while trying to find a way to communicate her true self. This creates a rich tapestry of comedic moments and poignant insights, as she learns that true connection goes beyond words. Through her journey, the film cleverly highlights how art can bridge gaps between different beings, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding. The interactions between the dog and the club members serve as a mirror to human relationships, showcasing the challenges of communication and the beauty of acceptance. Ultimately, "I Wish I Was a Dog" invites viewers to reflect on their own desires for belonging and the lengths one might go to achieve it, all wrapped in a humorous and heartwarming package that leaves a lasting impression.

Katherine Costal, a writer and filmmaker from Toronto, Canada, channels her passion for filmmaking to express her love for comedy and surrealism. She strives to craft films that depict realistic scenarios through metaphorical visual storytelling. Her creations are filled with playful, witty, and vibrant imagery, often accompanied by a deeper, more melancholic undertone. When she's not crafting stories with a camera, she enjoys imagining new fantasy worlds or planning her next adventure.

Director Statement

“I Wish I Was A Dog" is a surrealist comedy film intended to depict the struggle of connecting with people you admire through comparison to a bizarre but heartfelt scenario. The heart of the story lies in the simplicity of love offered to a pet without expecting much in return, yet being a very precarious bond where a lengthy relationship is not always promised. The protagonist feels like a dog because she struggles to meet the very human requirements of getting in with the club and envies the immediate effortless attention people reward to animals. At the same time she is already like a dog due to not having much in common with the club members and being unable to relate to their routine and abilities, deeming her an outcast or an extra in their family-like dynamic that can only help them with simple tasks.

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