DOG PARK (Canadian)
A review by Mark R. Leeper in bullet-list form
from the Toronto Internation Film Festival
CAPSULE: Yet another comedy about the singles scene, dating, who is going to have sex with whom, and what relationships are going to last. This one is also about dog owners and a dog psychologist and obedience trainer. Nothing in this film is heavier than a cocker spaniel. Rating: 6 (0 to 10), 1 (-4 to +4)
- Bruce McCulloch wrote and directed as well as having a role. - Luke Wilson plays Andy, a man who has just broken up with his girlfriend and is again looking for someone to share his life. In a singles bar he meets Lorna (Natasha Henstridge) whose job is being Miss Bookworm on children's television. He is interested in her, but in part because of a friend's philosophizing she is not interested in him. "People should provide you with romantic resumes." From the start we know they are perfect for each other. Ta-da, ta-da, ta-da. - There is also some titillation in liberal doses of sex scenes. This too is part of the formula. - Being about singles and dogs, of course, it has Janeane Garofalo. - Janeane Garofalo plays a friend of Andy, part of a "perfect couple." - These people don't know what they want and end up being stupid and hurting each other. - Some of the best humor is from the absurdity of the dog psychologist played by "Kids in the Hall" alumni Mark McKinney. - When the story gets slow they bring a dog on-stage. Dogs are natural entertainers. That's why they were domesticated in the first place.
Mark R. Leeper
mleeper@lucent.com
Copyright 1998 Mark R. Leeper
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