81. Dog; movie review

 

DOG
Cert 12A

101 mins

BBFC advice: Contains moderate sex references, references to racism, drug misuse, strong language

Channing Tatum and a Belgian Malinois didn't sound the likeliest double act to hold up a feature film but Dog wasn't nearly as bad as we had feared.

Sure, its storyline is a tad predictable but there is an unexpected warmth to the tale of a discharged veteran and the military mutt he must deliver to a fallen comrade's funeral.

This is a directorial debut for Tatum. He shares the duties with his pal, Reid Carolin but, as he is in virtually every shot, I can't imagine he spent much time behind the lens.

Anyway, his character, Jackson Briggs believes he has recovered from a frontline head injury well enough to return to active duty.

Frustratingly for him, the Army disagrees but his former commander asks him to prove himself with the aforementioned dog delivery.

The problem is that the animal has post traumatic stress and that manifests itself it aggressive behaviour towards anyone who comes near, especially if they stroke her ears.

Thus, the former soldier takes up the mission but almost instantly realises that it could be one of the most difficult of his life.

There are some amusing tangents caused by his inability to control the chaotic canine and there is plenty of pathos about the importance of dogs in the military and how much they become attached to their owners.

Meanwhile, Tatum's charm complements his square jaw and rippling physique which he shows off regularly throughout the film.

I can only presume this is meant as a distraction from the central storyline which is fairly mundane but if you are in need of fairly gentle canine comedy, Dog may fit the bill.

Reasons to watch: The dog is very cute

Reasons to avoid: Predictable storyline

Laughs: Two

Jumps: Two

Vomit: None

Nudity: None

Overall rating: 6/10

Did you know. The US Department of Defence finds mist of its canine recruits from elite breeders around the world but about 13% are born and bred into the military through the Military Working Dogs Breeding Program (aka Puppy Program) based at 341st Training Squad, San Antonio.

The final word. Channing Tatum: "Just to be really frank about it, I don't really feel like I directed it. I really think that like I directed the dog and Reid directed me. I don't know if I've directed my first movie really." EW.com

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