It may come as a surprise, but not all movies about “man’s best friend” mean the dog has to die. While that may be a safe assumption after the likes of everything from Old Yeller and Where the Red Fern Grows to Marley & Me, it’s a nice change of pace to see the dog have its day in the aptly named Dog. It’s clear Channing Tatum is a fan, otherwise I’d have no idea why he would make a movie pitting him against a canine co-star. Which, of course, manages to upstage him at every turn. And just because United Artists’ marketing department wants you to think they’re the new Turner & Hooch, doesn’t mean it’s dumbed down, but it’s also not the buddy road trip comedy they’re making it out to be.
Former Army Ranger Briggs (Tatum) has been tasked with transporting a fallen soldiers’ military working dog, Lulu, from Washington to Arizona for her handler’s funeral on a road trip full of misadventures, life lessons, and self discovery.
And that’s it. That’s literally the entire plot. Following such a tight structure, Tatum — making his directing debut alongside co-director/writer Reid Carolin — keeps the pace moving. Getting from point A to B is never an easy task for characters in these types of films, but when you get to tag along with Tatum and a charmingly feisty Belgian Malinois, anyone with the right expectations will have plenty to enjoy. I’m sure my wife enjoyed watching a screener at home with four mini dachshunds snuggled on her lap, than she would have in a theater. For those willing to venture out, just remember that while Dog may be funny, it isn’t exactly a comedy. Still it never gets too dark or uncomfortable while still managing to cover some pretty heavy issues.
*A special thanks to United Artists Releasing for a special (s)wag box of goodies!
