Underdog 2023

Doug Butler is a resilient dairy farmer from Vermont whose quirky love for dog mushing adds a unique flair to his life. He is quite the local legend, showcasing a natural affinity for handling cows, dogs, and engaging with people, bringing joy to those around him. As he trains his motley pack of mutts on his family farm, Doug nurtures a dream to compete in the world championships in Alaska. His youthful spirit revitalizes him, seemingly wiping away the weary lines etched on his sixty-five-year-old face.

However, the relentless pressures of maintaining a small family farm in an ever-evolving world weigh heavily on him. Doug has never been away from his cows for more than a few days, and beneath his lighthearted anecdotes and familiar jokes lies a more somber reality he rarely shares. Fully cognizant of the demise of the family farms that once populated the area, he has navigated his way through financial hurdles, skillfully managing to juggle creditors to eek out another season.

Yet, as his debts mount to an unmanageable level and despair begins to sink in, Doug finds comfort in the company of his dogs, who may ultimately provide him with a means of escape. One chilly morning in March, he climbs into his dilapidated truck, with 22 dogs in tow, and bids an emotional farewell to the only life he has ever known. His destination: Alaska. This journey not only prepares him for the challenges he will face upon his return—the potential sale of his farm—but also propels him towards crafting a new destiny.

Meticulously documented over a decade, UNDERDOG offers an engrossing and intimate portrayal of Doug Butler, showcasing his uniquely hopeful perspective against the backdrop of the myriad family farm tragedies that deeply resonate with American rural life. In a world increasingly shaped by the isolation of the pandemic, Doug’s story profoundly connects with anyone who grapples with loneliness and the pursuit of understanding amidst uncontrollable circumstances.