Following a Formula One driver, we see the hunger and passion behind racing. Speed and success ride on many variables, but none more than a confident and talented driver. Denny Swift, played by Milo Ventimiglia, is one of those few.
And while the racing and road are important to this story, they are not the lead or point of view. This film is led by a character on all fours, four paws that is. Enzo, voiced by Kevin Costner, is Denny’s pet, friend and number one supporter. Understanding what his human needs, he works to make happiness spring wherever it is needed.
Even when what is needed is a little space to include more family in their pack. He accepts Denny’s new mate Eve, played by Amanda Seyfried, as they become a couple, and soon, husband and wife. Enzo believes this is the perfect atmosphere, until Eve soon delivers a new baby named Zoe. This proves the Golden Retriever wrong as he takes the role of big brother and protector to this new member of the family.
During these life moments, Denny continues to race and strive for bigger races and better opportunities. At times this takes him away from his family, but Eve understands his dream and supports him one hundred percent. Unfortunately, the things you want and all of your plans never seem to happen the way you imagine. Everyone shuffles to understand and fix problems, all the while, Enzo the families lovable dog watches on with hope and worry.
Let’s start this review out with a note, and that note is, if you are a dog lover or are prone to emotion, this film will make you cry on more than one occasion. In fact, I’d go as far as to say this film is 80% percent emotion. This story, while not surprising or that original, resides in the moments and connections it creates. Bringing humanity to man’s best friend is always a winning bet, as most pet owners already give voice and personality to their own animals. But going deeper and showing how much the pet understands, cares and worries will break some people down. On top of that, this film has many other emotional triggers that all seem to build in their own way.
While not a huge fan of this film, I can see the emotions and reactions they looked to create. Based on a book, the imagery and voice was always there. All that was needed was to add talented actors and Kevin Costner’s timbre, from there you get a story that feels close to heart and home.
Grade: C+
MPAA Rating: PG
Running Time: 1hr 49m
Review
Rating
RN review of The Art of Racing in the Rain
While not a huge fan of this film, I can see the emotions and reactions they looked to create. Based on a book, the imagery and voice was always there. All that was needed was to add talented actors and Kevin Costner's timbre, from there you get a story that feels close to heart and home.