Marley and Me Movie Review

MARLEY AND ME: NOT YOUR TYPICAL DOG MOVIE

Yes, Marley and Me is a movie about a dog and the family that loves him. But no, it is not a cutesy movie. Based on the best selling memoir, it shows that life is hard and messy. But is also shows that it is worth living through all the ups and downs.

John Grogan (Owen Wilson) and Jenny Grogan (Jennifer Aniston) are newlyweds. They are both writers. They move to Florida from Michigan to start their lives. They both get jobs with newspapers. When Jenny starts itching for a baby, John takes the suggestion of buying her a dog to slow down the inevitable. The moment Marley comes into their lives, he shows them that having a crazy dog just enriches them. Over the years their life changes with the start of a family and moving from better house to a different state. Marley is there every step of the way to make it harder and easier, proving he isn't just a dog.

Making you laugh and cry, the plot does its job. It touches your heart and leaves a lasting impression. It doesn't fall to predictability which could be very easy for this kind of movie. It does help that it is based on a true story. Owen Wilson is the likable everyman dealing with what life throws at him. It is a good change of pace for him. Jennifer Aniston doesn't take the easy likable route. She makes her a woman that goes through hard times and doesn't always come out the saint. The only complaint is that the every day woman doesn't always look this good. Florida and Pennsylvania provide the backdrop for the film. Florida offers the sunniness and promise of a good life for the beginning of the Grogans' life and Pennsylvania delivers them the family friendly location and home for the latter part of their life.

John Grogan's friend Sebastian (Eric Dane) is a character that is a little too obvious. He is basically there to show John what he is missing out on by having a wife and family. He is essentially there to tell the audience what they already know as John's life changes.

Marley and Me is a family friendly picture that shows having a dog will only enrich your life. I'm already a dog lover for life so they were preaching to the choir. But for those who aren't, it is an endearing film that will touch your heart and not in a corny manner.

Report Card:

Story-A

Acting-B+

Visuals-B

Originality/Innovation-A

Enjoyability Grade–A