Review - Matt Mungle

   

Sit and stay for this new family comedy that, although not best in show, doesn’t go completely to the dogs. Based on the popular comic strip about the huge, lovable canine named MARMADUKE this film is geared toward the young movie goers with its sophomore humor and silly dog moments yet has just enough humor to make it doable for the parents who tag along.

When Marmaduke’s family uproots from their Kansas home to relocate to sunny California for a job position it isn’t only the kids who are having trouble fitting in. Marmaduke finds that the pedigrees at the dog park do not welcome strangers, much less mutts. So he has to find a way to fit in while staying loyal to his new friends who accept him as he is. This underlying message will resonate with young people of all ages as they see the lessons that Marmaduke learns by his bad decisions.

This is a live action film that mixes real life dogs with human voiceover. Marmaduke is voiced by Owen Wilson who is a lovable guy which makes for a loveable pet. The fact that his voice is so recognizable will mean nothing to the youngsters and they will find him endearing and funny. The adults will more appreciate the inclusion of George Lopez as the family cat and Sam Elliott as a much feared rouge legend. A blue ribbon goes to the dog handlers who do a great job of moving the animals through each scene. You soon forget that they really aren’t talking and interacting with each other. Every detail is fluid and fits so well with the doggie dialogue.

Marmaduke is rated PG for some rude humor and language. Please keep in mind that rude is sort of overkill. There is nothing gratuitous or tongue in cheek about this one. It is written on a level that parents will feel safe taking the entire family without any awkward moments. The characters, human or otherwise, are solidly written and portrayed. The writers did not dumb down the human factor in the story but hit home in issues that all families can relate to. I give it 3.75 out of 5 minty bones. There are possibly too many cheesy moments to make it totally engaging for adults and many parents will find themselves zoning out during some of the more kid geared moments. But in comparison to films like this in the past it is one of the top breeds. So says Matt Mungle