Luke McWilliams gives his review of the 2022 comedy-drama, Dog, starring Channing Tatum.

Former U.S. Army Ranger Jackson Briggs (Channing Tatum) is down on his luck. Suffering from the effects of multiple concussions and PTSD thanks to his career thus far in the military, Briggs is also struggling in adapting to civilian life. Wanting nothing more than to re-join his old unit, Briggs jumps at the chance to prove himself by bringing military dog Lulu on a cross-country tour to her former handler’s funeral.

In his feature directorial debut, Tatum adds depth to the expected storyline of man-and-his-dog, such as Turner and Hooch, where a stuffy, lone bachelor learns to compromise and love while on a mission begrudgingly partnered with man’s best friend. Here, the title Dog can easily refer to both leads as they mirror one another, while also serving as a reference to depression. Lulu also suffers mental ailments thanks to a distinguished military career, to be finalised post her handler’s funeral. While the spectre of death lingers over the movie, Briggs views Lulu’s life well lived due to her impeccable military service. It is thanks to the experiences and people that he meets along the way (including a surprise turn from Ethan Suplee), that Briggs can start to see a life beyond the strict confines of the military and his own self-worth.

Verdict: A surprisingly deep and moving study of a man’s growing perspective through his (begrudging) caring of another. A great directorial debut and acting effort by Tatum. 3.5 stars.

Viewed at Palace Cinemas.

• Luke McWilliams | themovieclub.net

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