As a remake for Japanese film Akita’s relationship with his owner, “Hachiko, a Dog’s Story” brings Joan Allen and Richard Gere together.

Variety.com says that Stephen P. Lindsey script is based on the true tale of a faithful Akita dog that kept vigil for nearly a decade, waiting for his master, who died and didn’t return home. The dog is celebrated by the Japanese each year, and a statue was erected in his honor in Tokyo. Gere plays a college professor who takes in the dog.

It’s not quite clear Allen’s role, but seeing these two actors together on the screen makes me want to see the film. That shouldn’t be too long because production starts January in Rhode Island.