Messi, the talented pooch who played Snoop in the critically acclaimed French film, made a grand entrance all the way from France to join the festivities at the Academy Award Nominees Luncheon in sunny Los Angeles this Monday.
His trainer, Laura Martin Contini, was beaming with pride as Messi mingled with Hollywood’s finest, even catching the eye of heartthrob Ryan Gosling, who couldn’t resist waving to the furry star.
Not to be outdone, Bradley Cooper also had a delightful encounter with Messi.
In the heartwarming French courtroom drama directed and co-written by Justine Triet, Messi shines as the beloved guide dog to Daniel, an 11-year-old boy caught in the midst of a high-profile trial and media frenzy following his father’s tragic death.
As the only innocent soul in the film, Messi’s presence adds a special touch of warmth and sincerity to the gripping storyline.
During the Oscars luncheon, Hüller expressed to Variety her lingering doubts about her character’s innocence, hinting that she believes “the only innocent creature in the film is the dog.”
While Messi may not be taking home an Oscar himself, he already has one prestigious accolade under his belt – the Palm Dog at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, honoring his outstanding performance in the selected films.
Triet praised Messi for being more than just a furry co-star, emphasizing his integral role in bringing the film’s ensemble cast together.
Hüller, the film’s lead actress, and Treit, the talented director and screenwriter, have garnered well-deserved nominations for their exceptional work.
Despite the glitz and glamour of the awards season, the true stars of the show remain Messi and his young co-star, Milo Machado Graner, whose genuine bond off-screen translated beautifully on camera.
Contini, Messi’s devoted trainer, shared insights into the close relationship between Messi and Graner, highlighting the importance of their playful interactions both on and off set.
Their genuine connection not only enhanced Messi’s performance but also brought a sense of authenticity to the film, captivating audiences worldwide.
In a world where four-legged actors often steal the show, Messi’s charm, talent, and undeniable on-screen presence have truly set him apart as a beloved canine star in the hearts of moviegoers everywhere.