Rating: 8/10
This movie revolves around Reggie, an affectionate dog, who experienced multiple instances of abandonment by his owner, Doug, ultimately leading to changes in the dog’s life.
In the heartwarming yet uproariously hilarious movie Strays, director Josh Greenbaum takes us on a captivating journey that explores the world of dogs, their quirky personalities, and the often-baffling dynamics between humans and their loyal companions. Anchored by a unique premise and bolstered by endearing performances, Strays delivers a distinctive blend of comedy, heart, and a dash of canine charm and a surprise cameo.
The movie offers a refreshing take on the timeless bond between humans and their four-legged friends. While the film initially appears to be a tale of abandoned dogs struggling for survival, it quickly evolves into a heartwarming exploration of the varied relationships that can form between dogs and their owners. The film’s strength lies in its clever interpretation of the canine-human connection, weaving together stories of canine misfits and the peculiar ways they impact humans. However, the film’s explicit and audacious humor, centered around dog antics and revenge, could make some viewers uncomfortable.
Strays engages by drawing viewers into the genuine reactions of humans to their dog counterparts. Predictable elements are balanced with unexpected twists that keep the audience entertained. The
storytelling effectively conveys the movie’s central theme – that dogs profoundly impact human lives despite their naughty behavior. Through a mix of dog-like and human-like reactions, the narrative paints a charming and relatable portrait of the bond between species.
The film’s central characters, four lovable dogs and their human owner Doug (played by the talented Will Forte) are the heart and soul of “Strays.” Each dog – from the opinionated Boston terrier Bug (voiced by Oscar® Jamie Foxx) to the misunderstood Reggie (voiced by Will Ferrell) – brings a unique perspective to the story. Their motivations and arcs are crafted with believable depth, capitalizing on human emotions while maintaining a canine authenticity.
The standout performances of the movie come from its canine stars. Enhanced with impressive animation, the dogs display a convincing blend of dog-like mannerisms and human-like expressiveness. These lifelike portrayals bring heart and humor to the narrative, with each dog capturing its distinct personality flawlessly. While the ending’s climax may have felt a bit messy, it doesn’t diminish the overall enchanting performances of the four-legged cast.
Strays skillfully captures the world from a dog’s perspective, seamlessly
transitioning between urban and rural landscapes. This unique approach adds to the film’s overall atmosphere and draws the audience deeper into the canine experience. The visually striking scenes, such as the dogs’ encounter with mind-altering mushrooms, offer a memorable and whimsical touch.
Greenbaum masterfully brings the story to life by blending real dogs with sophisticated animation techniques. Seamlessly integrating the canine characters into the human world creates a captivating and immersive viewing experience. The director’s choices enhance the film’s charm, turning a seemingly simple concept into a delightful exploration of doggy adventures and human foibles.
The film’s engaging dialogue offers a mix of predictability and unexpected humor, ensuring that viewers are entertained throughout. It effectively contributes to character development, allowing each dog’s distinct personality to shine. The script perfectly balances humor and drama, highlighting the sometimes-comical disparities between human and dog perspectives.
Strays maintains an engaging pace by skillfully transitioning between scenes and characters. The editing enhances the flow of the narrative, ensuring that viewers remain invested in the dogs’ various escapades. Though there are moments of unpredictability, such as the hawk’s unexpected appearance, these elements contribute to the movie’s overall charm.
Overall, Strays is a delightful comedy that offers a fresh and imaginative take on the human-dog relationship. While its explicit and daring humor may not be for everyone, those who approach the movie with an open mind and a penchant for canine antics are in for an entertaining treat. The film’s unique blend of heart, humor, and canine charm makes it a standout addition to the genre, appealing to adults who appreciate a dose of lighthearted irreverence.
The target audience for “Strays” consists of adults, both pet owners and
non-pet owners, seeking a one-of-a-kind comedy experience. The film’s
fantastical portrayal of dogs and humans and its explicit humor may resonate particularly with those willing to embrace its offbeat and playful approach.
Strays comes highly recommended for those seeking a dose of laughter and heart in a unique cinematic package. Its engaging characters, whimsical storytelling, and impressive canine performances will leave a lasting impression. While the film’s explicit moments may be polarizing, approaching it with a sense of humor akin to a dog’s perspective can lead to a thoroughly enjoyable viewing experience.
Rating: 8/10 Strays earns a solid 8 for its entertainment value, innovative concept, and seamless blend of doggy charm with human follies. While the film’s explicit humor may not suit everyone, its overall impact and portrayal of the human-dog relationship make it a delightful addition to comedy cinema.
We welcome Ailehs Tony to BEP Voice as our resident “Reel Talk” host. Ailehs is a retired combat Veteran who says, “I still strive to serve the Veteran community by not only volunteering in the community, but also providing one on one peer support, coordinating peer support groups, and assisting with community resources.