Dog - A Aventura de Uma Vida

7/10

This film officially releases on Friday, but my local Cineplex had an early showing that I took advantage of.

I must say that this film actually exceeded my expectations. This trailer didn't come across as very emotional, but it turned out to be quite the opposite. There were a lot of offsetting funny and serious parts throughout with just enough emotional tension to finish the film off as expected.

I liked Channing Tatum here because he was able to express those funny and serious tones with his interactions coming mainly between himself and the dog, Lulu. The few interactions he had with people were spot on. Some military humour was thrown in there that not everyone found tasteful, but I found hilarious.

Although it had a military vibe to it. I don't think one would have to support the military to enjoy this one. If you care about dogs, and especially dogs finding their place in one's life and vice-versa, then I would definitely recommend giving this one a try.

I thought it was longer, but 90 minutes was perfect timing for the film. Although some of the fluff pieces felt just that. Fluff. I would've liked to have seen more silent, emotional moments such as flashbacks to show background to the trauma, but overall the film had good pacing and the story was told in its structured setting.

Overall, truly a good film that I came out of emotionally touched and happy to have seen. Good acting by Channing Tatum and the story was relatable and enjoyable.

Until next time.... Enjoy the show!

Positives:

• As a 'road movie' featuring a man and a dog, this one has genuine heart. It's not gooey and gelatinous like a "Marley and Me" dog story: it actually has a moderately hard edge to it. This is helped along by Channing Tatum who delivers a really nice and believable performance as the injured vet.

• Given this is the directorial debut of writer Reid Carolin and Channing Tatum (sharing the seat), it has a really nice pace to it. At 100 minutes long it doesn't outstay its welcome. And any time that the pace does slacken off, it's for meaningful relationship-building between Briggs and Lulu. (A stormy interlude in a barn is particularly engaging).

• The cinematography by Newton Thomas Sigel is gorgeous, making full use of California's wonderful golden light and with some impressive drone footage along Highway 1.

• Given the low-budget cast (Tatum is the only big name), they've wisely invested in a scoring master (Thomas Newman) to write the music. And its lovely: understated, but when it does come through it adds considerably to the pictures.

Negatives:

• There's a lot of "thank you for your service" type messaging in here, which might cloy a bit with non-American audiences.

• It's also worth saying that this is a 12A for a reason, and parents thinking to take little ones along to see this in half term as a 'happy clappy dog movie' might want to check the BBFC comments on their web site. I attended an afternoon showing, with a number of parents and kids in the 8 to 10 sort of age-range. The parental squirming evident during the "threesome scene" (nothing actually proceeds) was self-evident, as a portent for those questions in the car home!

Summary Thoughts on "Dog": A solid and enjoyable tale that - and there is no one more surprised at this than me - I would recommend.

(For the full graphical review, please check out One Mann's Movies on the web or Facebook. Thanks.)

To the person that said it's been done before sure but never this story I'm sure there's very few about a dog from the army. Channing Tatum was superb throughout I loved Dog (Lulu) the journey story and bonding was so lovely! So much wildness, charm, endearment, and great dialogue throughout; amazing movie I'd recommend to anyone!

Dog is a thought-provoking film about an important subject. This movie tells a compelling story about a former Army Ranger and his journey to bring a canine hero to the funeral of his previous comrade and handler. In the end, the two warriors rescue each other in their odyssey of self-discovery.

Army Ranger Briggs (Channing Tatum) and Lulu (a Belgian Malinois K-9 Working Dog) are joined together against their will to honor the service and sacrifice of Sergeant Riley Rodriguez (Eric Urbiztondo) at his distant funeral. Along the way, they drive each other crazy, exhibit self-destructive and bad behavior while also escaping dangerous situations. They begin to bond on their journey and heal the wounds they both experienced from combat situations which makes them realize that life can move forward in unexpected ways.

Channing Tatum (Army Ranger Briggs) adds a lot of humor in his character's dialogue and in the physical comedy between Lulu and him. Tatum also co-directs this movie along with Reid Carolin who wrote the screenplay as well. My favorite scene is when Briggs coaxes Lulu into taking a bath-and there are many other funny physical interaction scenes between the two of them when they are fighting or at odds. There are some touching scenes together as well, such as when Lulu is comforting him after a severe headache.

The message of Dog is that life typically unfolds in unexpected ways and embracing change can bring about unexpected happiness. Both Army Ranger Briggs and Lulu are wounded warriors and together they experience this journey of healing. Parents need to be aware that this film has some mature elements involving language, drugs and sexual material. Younger audiences may also be frightened by some of the dog's aggressive behavior.

I give Dog 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 14 to 18, plus adults. By Selene W., KIDS FIRST!

Dog is a fun movie that knows what it is: a cute dog and a charming lead going on a road trip together while having some misadventures.

I still don't why some movies decide to put CGI dogs in a movie like The Call of The Wild remake. People go see dog movies to see dogs.