About the film (courtesy of United Artists Releasing):
A buddy comedy that follows the misadventures of two former Army Rangers paired against their will on the road trip of a lifetime. Army Ranger Briggs and Lulu (a Belgian Malinois dog) buckle into a 1984 Ford Bronco and race down the Pacific Coast in hopes of making it to a fellow soldier’s funeral on time. Along the way, they’ll drive each other completely crazy, break a small handful of laws, narrowly evade death, and learn to let down their guards in order to have a fighting chance of finding happiness.
The various advertisements, as well as the official synopsis for Dog, put forth an illusion that this movie is more of a comedy that would keep audiences laughing throughout as man and mutt fumble their way to the finish line. If you’re in my age range, movies such as Turner & Hooch (1989), starring Tom Hanks or K-9 (1989), starring James Belushi may come to mind as probable comparisons. If that’s the case, your expectations should be sightly adjusted as this feature deals with, at least in part, the darker psychological sides of being a combat veteran as well as some of the happier moments.
In addition to being the main star, Channing Tatum is also credited with co-directing Dog along with Reid Carolin. This feature contains more drama than you’ve problem seen Channing Tatum dealing with in the last 6+ years. This is actually a positive for the actor since we’re reminded that he has indeed expanded his talents beyond action, comedy and delightful dance moves. There are quite a few scenes where emotional range is required and Channing Tatum does not flinch. Witnessing his ever growing bond with Lulu will probably stir up all kinds of emotions.
Production work is always more difficult when one of the main costars is either a child or an animal. Having a cast that is comfortable with and able to adjust on the fly to compensate with the “wildcards” makes the end result even more gratifying once all is said and done. In addition to Channing Tatum, Dog features Jane Adams, Kevin Nash, Q’orianka Kilcher, Ethan Suplee, Emmy Raver-Lampman, Nicole LaLiberté, Luke Forbes and Ronnie Gene Blevins in supporting roles that assist in telling this heartfelt story.
Dog will lead audiences on highs and lows of laughter and emotion from scene to scene as things play out. Don’t get to comfortable with any one vibe, because just like life, in the next moment you’re experiencing something totally different. Channing Tatum is a joy to watch throughout this journey as his character learns new things regarding his purpose in life and those he interacts with, especially his new four-legged companion.
While there are flashier offerings in theaters this weekend, I doubt that you will receive the same emotional connection that you will when experiencing this comedy with heart. Dog opens wide on Friday, February 18th with early showings starting in the late afternoon on Thursday. This is a journey that is worth the watch.
