Who could forget The Beast from the 1993 classic “The Sandlot”? This larger-than-life dog wasn’t just a figment of a child’s imagination but a real-life Old English Mastiff who captured hearts as Hercules. While the movie set in the summer of 1962 gave us plenty of laughs and nostalgia, let’s delve into the fascinating facts about this cinematic dog’s grandeur and the breed that brought it to life.
In the movie, Scott Smalls, a preteen new to town, befriends a group of baseball-loving boys who regale him with tales of The Beast, the colossal canine that supposedly eats whatever crosses its path. But don’t be fooled. After a comedic chase scene, the boys soon discover The Beast is not a monster but a lovable Mastiff named Hercules.
The Old English Mastiff, which steals scenes in The Sandlot, is known for its impressive stature. Originally from medieval England, these dogs were referenced in Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales.” Post-World War II, only 14 Mastiffs were left in the U.K., but American breeders helped recover their numbers. They can tower at 30 inches and weigh up to 220 pounds, striking both awe and intimidation in their handlers.
However, beneath this imposing exterior lies a gentle giant. With proper socialization and training, Mastiffs become fiercely protective and excellent family companions. Known for their calm and patient demeanor, they are remarkable guard dogs and wonderful with children. New dog owners beware, Mastiffs are not for the faint-hearted, requiring commitment to training and social interactions.
In bringing The Beast to the big screen, filmmakers employed two actual dogs and a puppet due to the character’s grandiosity. The main dog actor, Gunner, hailed from California’s Mtn. Oaks Ranch Mastiffs. His owner, Andie Williams, lent him for filming, ensuring a stunt double handled the more vigorous scenes. Gunner became famous for licking baby food off the actor’s face, a humorous moment that created a memorable on-screen chemistry.
“The Sandlot” was so beloved that it spawned a sequel, “The Sandlot 2,” introducing another Mastiff named Goliath, offspring of the original Hercules. Though the sequel didn’t quite hit the mark like the original, it kept the beloved giant dog theme alive, this time with a nod to its predecessor.
“The Sandlot” and its unforgettable Mastiff gave audiences more than just entertainment; they offered a look at a breed that, despite its gargantuan size, proves to be gentle and loyal. Hercules, from a feared legend to a beloved pet, reminds us that appearances can be deceiving, especially when it comes to dogs.
