Over the last several years and years before that, movies headlined dogs. A Dog’s Purpose, A Dog’s Way Home, Alpha, The Call of the Wild and just this post valentine’s day weekend (2022) the latest addition in a buddy and man’s best friend–DOG. The film stars Channing Tatum as Army Ranger Riggs accompanying a transport army-trained Belgian Malinois (against each other’s will) Lulu to pay respect of her deceased handler, Nuke.
Along their adventurous way the two, act like two male beta fish in the same bowl. It’s completely crazy. The ride in his Ford Bronco is not exactly DOG proof but they make the ride work no matter how many times they saw against the grain of the law. A hotel scene shows his character pretending to be blind to gain attention with Lulu being his guide. That was a little over the top and mildly entertaining. This makes for Tatum’s directorial debut with Reis Carolin lending a hand. Channing’s love for dogs was an easy choice for him to do this buddy movie of misfits.
The most important of any film takes place behind the scenes. And in an animal film it’s all about the trainer(s). The trainer is hired to get the dog what the photographer has the mind for it to do. Treats, leashes, Temperamental testing and, of course, vaccinations. Squeaking toys to make the animal turn it’s head in the wanted direction or run through tall grass to achieve it chasing someone or something.
Dog trainers are a dire necessity. So next time any movie involving a horse, dog, cat or a trained bear, think how the animal trainers put it all together in order to pair them with the human actors and give them a shout out. Dog opens only in theatres February 18, 2022. The movie is actually classified as a comedy and although there is some humor, it’s really a drama. Grade C+
