Anyone who loves dogs will get a kick out of this film, and a few non-dog people may be converted as well. It’s an endearing look at how canine friends enrich our lives and become important members of the family.
The film is directed by Ken Marino and written in a style similar to Love, Actually. Small subsets of Los Angelenos star in their own dog-related stories, but the tales overlap and create a bigger picture as the different characters meet. The main story tracks include Elizabeth and Jimmy, co-hosts of a TV talk show; Walter and Tyler, neighbors in search of Walter’s lost pug; Tara and Garrett, who throw a fundraiser to save Garrett’s pet rescue group; and Grace and Kurt, who have adopted a shy little girl. Vanessa Hudgens and Eva Longoria are a couple of the more recognizable cast members.
The overlying theme is that dogs make us better people with their unconditional love and ability to heal divided relationships. I think the film packs some emotional punch without being too sappy. I saw more than one audience member take out a tissue!
Should you see it? Yes, it’s a good choice for a family outing.. -J.J.
Viewed at AMC Classic Creve Coeur 12
