What breed was the Baskerville's Hound in the movie? - briefly
The Baskerville's Hound depicted in the movie was a Great Dane. This breed is known for its impressive size and distinctive appearance.
What breed was the Baskerville's Hound in the movie? - in detail
The Baskerville's Hound, as depicted in the movie adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Hound of the Baskervilles," is an iconic and chilling figure that plays a pivotal role in the narrative. The breed of this formidable creature has been a subject of much speculation and debate among audiences and literary enthusiasts alike.
In the original novel, Doyle describes the Hound as having "a taller and straighter build than is common with the mongrel." This description suggests that the Hound is not a purebred dog but rather a crossbreed, possibly with a significant amount of large hound in its lineage. The most popular theory among scholars and enthusiasts is that the Baskerville's Hound is a cross between a Great Dane and some form of a large, black hound such as an Irish Wolfhound or a Scottish Deerhound.
The choice of breed for the cinematic adaptation can significantly influence the audience's perception of the Hound's menace and power. In many film adaptations, directors have opted to use a combination of real dogs and special effects to bring the Hound to life. For instance, in the 1939 version starring Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes, the Hound was portrayed using a combination of an Irish Wolfhound and a German Shepherd. This combination effectively captured the imposing stature and intimidating presence described by Doyle.
In more recent adaptations, such as the 2002 television movie starring Richard Roxburgh and Ian Hart, computer-generated imagery (CGI) has been employed to create a more fantastical and terrifying version of the Hound. This approach allows for greater creative freedom in depicting the creature's size, strength, and ferocity.
Ultimately, the breed or combination of breeds used to portray the Baskerville's Hound serves as a crucial element in conveying the eerie atmosphere and suspense that are hallmarks of Doyle's classic tale. Whether through the use of real dogs or advanced visual effects, the cinematic depiction of the Hound aims to evoke the same sense of dread and mystery that captivated readers of the original novel.