A few months ago, it was announced that The Sandlot (titled as The Sandlot Kids in some countries) would have a television revival at Disney. The original director and co-writer, David Mickey Evans is behind the reboot. Some sources say that the main cast is returning as well.
For those of you who don't know, The Sandlot is a coming-of-age film set in the early 60s in California. The story follows Scott “Scotty” Smalls and his new friends. This lighthearted comedy is perfect for anyone who wishes to return to the age of innocence, particularly for those who grew up playing baseball.
But as for me, I look forward to seeing Hercules The Beast — the gang’s biggest threat! I am pretty sure dog lovers who grew up watching this film share the same sentiment as me.
Who is Hercules The Beast?
The gang initially thought that there was a Gorilla-like dog lurking on the other side of the sandlot. According to Legend, The Beast once ate a humongous pile of flesh, thus turning into a giant. He would kill anyone who dared enter into his lot! Unfortunately, the boys’ baseball fell into the giant’s domain. The kids tried their best to retrieve the ball, but the behemoth demolished all their attacking devices and techniques.
The gang finally decided to confront The Beast, which later turned out to be a gentle giant named Hercules. All the rumors dispersed after the face-off. Hercules gave the boys tons of baseballs and became the newest member of their baseball team.
Who is Hercules in Real Life?
There have been many baseball movies over the years but for dog lovers, The Sandlot would be among the best! The moral of the story is to never judge a dog by its fur-cover! The brawny canine antagonist was a sweetheart after all. But the question is, who is Hercules in real life?
The herculean canine is a purebred English Mastiff. Although Hercules’ character was played by two Mastiffs, there is one particular pooch who played it primarily. That guy is none other than Gunner from Ch. Mtn. Oaks Ranch. It was Gunner who hoarded baseballs, thwarted the gang’s schemes, and chased Benny.
Gunner is a natural entertainer, according to his owner. His silly antics include sitting like a panda bear and going behind the window blinds to make them rattle. That aside, Gunner bagged the AKC Championship when he was 14 months old. He is also the youngest male who made it to the last cut of the BOB competition in 1990.
Behind the Scenes with The Beast
CGI wasn’t a thing back in the early 90s. Animatronics designer Rick Lazarini built a massive head and a full over-sized suit brought to life by two puppeteers. David Mickey Evans shared cool behind-the-scenes shots. You can check them out here.
Are English Mastiffs Family Dogs?
This giant breed stands between 27 to 30 inches at the shoulder. Likewise, a healthy giant Mastiff can weigh up to 230 pounds. Because of their imposing size, English Mastiffs are often feared and misjudged just like Hercules in the Sandlot movie. But by nature, this breed is a peacemaker.