While Wonder Woman took over the box office this weekend (rightfully so!), there’s another story, about a real-life wonder woman set to hit theaters this weekend. Megan Leavey, which premieres on June 9th, is based on the true story of the U.S. Marine Corporal who, along with her military combat dog Rex, saved many lives during their deployment in Iraq.
When Megan enlists in the Marine Corps she is assigned to clean up the K9 unit after a disciplinary hearing. It’s here where she first meets Rex, and develops a unique bond with the overly aggressive dog. Recognizing that the young corporal identified with the dog on an emotional level, she was given the chance to train him. Over the course of their service, Megan and Rex completed more than 100 missions until an IED explosion injured them both. Following their injuries, Megan took on another battle, and fought the military so she could adopt Rex.
Megan Leavey showcases the extraordinary bond between the title character and her military dog. Having trained together at Camp Pendleton, the US Marine corporal and her German Shepherd served on two deployments in Iraq together, working on the most dangerous of missions, often searching out possible explosives in advance of the troops. They both served their nation proudly. But they also found a way to be there for each other when one needed the other most.
The film is directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite (Blackfish) from a screenplay by Pamela Gray, Annie Mumolo and Tim Lovestedt and stars Kate Mara as Megan, Edie Falco, Ramón Rodríguez, Bradley Whitford, and Common.
“There are a number of stories of war movies that depict a male marine; very few that do that with a woman,” said Director Gabriela Cowperthwaite about her inspiration to tell Megan’s story.
Actress Kate Mara calls Megan’s story “so inspiring. I think it’s such a testament to never giving up on fighting for something you believe in and something you know is right. It doesn’t just pertain to this specific story. I think people can relate to that in all walks of life.”
Megan Leavey will be in theaters nationwide this Friday, June 9th. For more information, check your local listings.