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| Movie Review: Year of the Dog Alternate Title: All Creatures Great and Small
Story: This is a doggone good
directorial debut for writer Mike White. If you have
a soft spot in your heart for animals you have got to see this film.
Mike White's unconventional view of humankind has been a thread in all
of his films and he hits the mark again in this movie. Peggy, an unremarkable office worker, tries to
fit into the mainstream of what 'normal' suggests. She obvious human
frailty and her search to blend in is frustrating. One day, Pencil,
her adorable beagle, dies of toxic poisoning. Her otherwise, routine
existence is turned upside down. How she copes, how she mourns, how
she finds her bliss and passion in life is what this film is all about.
There were many laughs and a few tears. All of the characters in this film are treated
with dignity, regardless of their foibles and self-absorbtion. I cared
for them all but I especially fell for Peggy. It was refreshing to find
a heroine who finally discovers her meaning in life and it is NOT on
the arm of a handsome Prince. The average dog is a nicer person than the average person.( Andy Rooney). Acting: SNL's Molly Shannon is simply
wonderful as the passionate Peggy. Brava to her. Regina King,
as her co-worker is hysterical. Laura Dern and Tom
McCarthy have never been better. Peter Sarsgaard,
as an animal activist is great. John C. Reilly as the
neighbor hands us another wonderful performance and Josh Pais
as the boss made me roar with laughter. Predilection: I love animals. All of them. Check
out my video homage on youtube.com to Benny and Madison,
who grace my home with their presence.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQ_7X46_vNE
Critters: To those out there who will not go to see
a film where an animal gets hurt let me assure you that you do not actually
see any of the bad stuff but you are certainly aware of two bad instances.
That said, let me name them the critters. There were so many dogs I
lost count. There were also sheep, chickens, horses, donkeys and cows.
Food: There is lots of discussion about being a vegetarian,
as a lifestyle.
Blatant Product Placement: Diet Coke, Dog World and
Dog Fancy magazines and Victoria Secret.
Soundtrack: Very appropriate and toe tapping.
Opening Titles: Simple title over a sequence showing
Peggy and Pencil at home.
Visual Art: Some really bad wall art that you would
find at a mall. (No dogs playing poker though).
Theater Audience: About six other dog owners.
Weather: It is Southern California. It is sunny and
dry.
Sappy Factor: 0 - Lesser hands would have made this
a sap-fest.
Quirky Meter: 3 -Mike White always gets a quirky
reading.
Squirm Scale: The idea of euthanasia makes me squirm.
Drift Factor: No drifting for me.
Predictability Level: I was not sure where this film
was headed.
Tissue Usage: I welled up a number of times.
Oscar Worthy: No
Soap Box: Animal cruelty, animal medical testing
and animal abuse are a passion of mine and I support Animal organizations
with my wallet and my voice.
Big Screen or Rental: Mike White
as a writer is a rare entity. Here are some of his other memorable films
to rent: The School of Rock, The Good Girl, Chuck&Buck by)
Length: Under two hours
LOBO HOWLS: 8
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