“Togo,” released in 2019, is a captivating historical adventure film directed by Ericson Core and produced by Walt Disney Pictures. The film tells the inspiring true story of a heroic sled dog and his owner, Leonhard Seppala, played by Willem Dafoe. Set against the harsh backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness, “Togo” explores themes of perseverance, loyalty, and the powerful bond between humans and their canine companions.

The narrative unfolds during the 1925 serum run to Nome, a crucial mission to deliver diphtheria anтιтoxin to a remote Alaskan town facing a life-threatening outbreak. The story is primarily focused on Seppala and Togo, one of the lead sled dogs known for his extraordinary stamina and intelligence. As the film begins, viewers are introduced to Togo’s early days, highlighting his challenging upbringing and the unyielding spirit that defines him. This backstory not only sets the stage for his character but also establishes the deep connection between Seppala and Togo, portraying them as partners bound by mutual respect and love.

Willem Dafoe delivers a powerful performance as Leonhard Seppala, capturing the complexity of a man who is both a dedicated musher and a caring dog owner. Dafoe’s portrayal conveys the emotional depth of Seppala’s character, illustrating his determination and vulnerability as he navigates the challenges posed by the treacherous terrain and the harsh Alaskan winter. The relationship between Seppala and Togo is the film’s emotional core, showcasing the unwavering loyalty and trust that exists between them.

The cinematography in “Togo” is stunning, beautifully capturing the stark beauty of the Alaskan landscape. The film utilizes sweeping sH๏τs of snow-covered mountains, frozen rivers, and vast expanses of wilderness, immersing the audience in the harsh conditions that Seppala and his team face. Ericson Core’s direction effectively conveys the intensity of the journey, using visual storytelling to heighten the emotional stakes of the mission. The film’s pacing is well-balanced, moving seamlessly between moments of action and quieter scenes that allow for character development and reflection.

As the serum run begins, the film shifts into high gear, presenting thrilling sled dog sequences that showcase the incredible teamwork required to navigate the challenging conditions. Togo’s exceptional skills and instincts shine as he leads the team through blizzards and treacherous terrain, demonstrating the intelligence and resilience that make him a remarkable sled dog. The film does not shy away from the dangers of the journey, creating a palpable sense of tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

In addition to the action, “Togo” delves into the themes of sacrifice and heroism. As Seppala pushes forward, he faces numerous obstacles, both natural and emotional. The journey serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the bonds that can be forged through adversity. The film captures the essence of teamwork, illustrating how each member of the sled dog team contributes to the mission’s success, reinforcing the idea that collaboration is vital in overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges.

One of the film’s strengths is its focus on the emotional journey of both Seppala and Togo. Their relationship evolves throughout the film, highlighting moments of doubt, fear, and unwavering loyalty. The bond they share is not just that of owner and pet; it is a profound partnership built on mutual understanding and respect. This emotional depth adds richness to the narrative, allowing audiences to connect with the characters on a personal level.

The film’s score, composed by Mark Isham, enhances the storytelling by complementing the emotional highs and lows of the narrative. The music underscores the tension during the sledding sequences and provides a sense of intimacy during quieter moments between Seppala and Togo. The combination of visual and auditory elements creates a fully immersive experience that resonates with viewers.

“Togo” received critical acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling, stunning visuals, and strong performances. Critics praised Dafoe’s portrayal of Seppala and the film’s ability to convey the emotional weight of the story. The film stands out as a powerful tribute to the real-life events of the serum run and the unsung heroes, both human and canine, who played a vital role in saving lives.

In conclusion, “Togo” is a poignant and exhilarating film that captures the spirit of adventure, resilience, and the extraordinary bond between a man and his dog. Through its rich storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, and memorable performances, the film pays homage to the courage and determination that define the human experience. As audiences journey alongside Seppala and Togo through the unforgiving wilderness, they are reminded of the enduring power of loyalty, love, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to confront the elements in pursuit of a noble cause. For anyone seeking an inspiring tale of heroism and companionship, “Togo” is a must-watch that will leave a lasting impact.

A Farmer’s Misplaced Hammer Led to the Largest Roman Treasure in Britain

Hoxne Hoard treasures. Photo by Helen Simonsson CC by SA-2.0

November 16, 1992 was the day which changed Suffolk-resident Eric Lawes’ life in a huge way. What he thought would have been an innocent search for a hammer he had misplaced on his farm in Hoxne Village, Suffolk, England ended up bringing him much more than he had bargained for — namely, uncovering the hiding spot of a long-hidden treasure. Based on the Guardian’s coverage of the story, Eric Lawes had been previously gifted a metal detector upon his retirement as a parting token. He decided to put his retirement gift to good use in order to locate the hammer which he had had some trouble finding. According to a 2018 Smithsonian Magazine article, when the device started recording that there was a strong signal coming from the earth, he knew that he was about to discover something big. As he started digging, it soon became clear to him that he had unearthed a treasure trove.

Hoxne Village. Photo by Duncan Grey CC BY-SA 2.0

The Guardian reports that, when Lawes saw that his preliminary digging had yielded a few gold coins and silver spoons, he immediately contacted both the local archaeological society and the police department. Archaeologists came to the property the following day and had the area of earth holding the treasure carefully sectioned-off and removed. Their hope was that at a later stage, in their laboratory, they could examined the items in order to identify both their age and how they were stored.

Hoxne Hoard: Display case at the British Museum showing a reconstruction of the arrangement of the hoard treasure when excavated in 1992. Photo by Mike Peel CC BY-SA 4.0

When all was said and done, close to 60 pounds of items made from silver and gold were found on the site. These included more than 15,000 Roman coins, 200 gold objects, and several silver spoons. For archaeologists, this find — which later became labeled as the Hoxne Hoard — was an incredible discovery. AP News reported that archaeologist Judith Plouviez was over-the-moon about the discovery, saying that it was “an incredibly exciting and amazing find.” What’s more, another archaeologist, Rachel Wilkinson, told Smithsonian Magazine that this discovery was “the largest and latest ever found in Britain.”

Hoxne Hoard: Coins. Photo by Mike Peel CC BY-SA 4.0

Ordinarily, archaeologists would use radiocarbon dating as a means of identifying the age of ancient relics. However, they couldn’t locate any suitable material from the haul. Consequently, they determined the age by examining writing on the coins, as well as the ruler carved into them, estimating that the treasure was probably buried in either 408 or 409 AD.

The silver “Hoxne Tigress” – the broken-off handle from an unknown object – is the best known single piece out of some 15,000 in the hoard. Photo by Mike Peel CC BY-SA 4.0

Roman-era archaeologist Peter Guest told Smithsonian Magazine that “if you look at them a little more carefully, then they should be dated to the period after the separation of Britain from the Roman Empire.” He offers as part of his evidence the fact that almost all of the coins found in the Hoxne Hoard were clipped – in other words, small chunks of their edges had been taken off. These clippings would have been used to create coins which were similar to the Roman coins of that era.

A silver-gilt spoon with a marine beast from the Hoxne Hoard. Currently in the British Museum. Photo by JMiall CC BY-SA 3.0

Guest has a logical reason for this, arguing that “The Roman Empire wasn’t supplying Britain with new gold and silver coins, and in light of that, the population tried to get over this sudden cutoff in the supply of their precious metals by making the existing supplies go further.”

Reconstruction of the Hoxne treasure chest. Photo by Mike Peel CC-BY-SA-4.0

Archaeologists also believe that the treasure belonged to a Romano-British family. During that time, considering that there was so much societal discord and upheaval, it was common for Romans who had settled in Britain to bury their most prized possessions.

Two gold bracelets from the Hoxne Hoard, in the British Museum. Photo by Fæ CC BY-SA 3.0

That said, one archaeologist is of the belief that the hoard had a lot of sentimental value for the Romano-British family to whom it is believed to have belonged. In her book The Hoxne Late Roman Treasure: Gold Jewellery and Silver Plate, Catherine Johns claims that the manner in which the treasure was kept supported this claim. Some of the items which were recovered had been packaged in small, wooden boxes which were lined with leather. What’s more, pieces of wood, locks, and nails, among other things, surrounded the gold and silver pieces. This leads Catherine to assert that the package was carefully buried and not simply chucked away in a rush.

Three silver-gilt Roman piperatoria or pepper pots from the Hoxne Hoard on display at the British Museum

Interestingly enough, the items unearthed might shed some light on the identity of the family who owned them. They cite a gold bracelet bearing the inscription “UTERE FELIX DOMINA IULIANE,” which roughly translates to “use this happily Lady Juliane”. A second name “Aurelius Ursicinus” has also been discovered. This has consequently led some to believe that Juliane and Aurelius were the couple and the original owners of the treasure. That said, that has yet to be confirmed.

Two toiletry items, one in the shape of a crane-like bird; the other with an empty socket, probably for bristles for a makeup brush. Photo by Fæ CC BY-SA 3.0

All in all, the discovery was a real treasure for archaeologists, and by extension, for Lawes. According to Smithsonian Magazine, in recognition of his discovery and willingness to contact authorities, the British government rewarded him with over £1.7 million, an amount which he shared with the farmer whose land was dug out in order to get the treasure. Funnily enough, apart from the treasure, Lawes also found his lost hammer — which now resides in the British Museum.

Work To World

Togo (2019)

A Farmer’s Misplaced Hammer Led to the Largest Roman Treasure in Britain

A Farmer’s Misplaced Hammer Led to the Largest Roman Treasure in Britain

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