A vivid, heart-warming portrait of the people, personalities and puppies who work together to create the most remarkable of human–canine relationships: guide dogs.

Every year, the American charity Guide Dogs for the Blind receives more than 1000 requests for new canine companions. But not just any dog can become a guide dog, and the challenges and tests an aspiring hound must face over their first 18 months will push these pups to their absolute limits.

In Pick of the Litter, documentarians Dana Nachman (Batkid Begins) and Don Hardy Jr (Theory of Everything: A Film About the Residents, MIFF 2015) follow five puppies from the moment they’re born, through their various foster families and right up until a select few of them are paired with hopeful new owners. It’s a testament to determination, hope and straight-up puppy love.

"Seriously cute ... combines emotive storytelling with concisely focused filmmaking that’s sure to charm." – Hollywood Reporter

Guide Dogs Victoria will have staff and volunteers available pre- and post-screenings to discuss the services they provide ways the community can get involved in the organisation. They will also have some seriously cute ambassador dogs with them who love a good pat!