Tales about animals have always touched the hearts of young and old moviegoers. Stories rotating on man’s best friend have a special significance in Hollywood as films like ‘Marley and Me’, ‘My Dog Skip’, ‘Hachiko: A Dog’s Tale’, ‘Lassie’, ‘Bolt’, ‘White Fang’ and ‘Beethoven’s Second’ have been embraced by dog lovers across the globe. Therefore, it is no surprise that a film based on W. Bruce Cameron’s 2010 novel ‘A Dog’s Purpose’ made it to the wide screen.
Cashing on the 2017 film’s success, a sequel soon made its appearance in 2019. Directed by Gail Mancuso, ‘A Dog’s Journey’ explores a different aspect connected with our four-legged friends: loyalty.
Unlike its predecessor, ‘A Dog’s Journey’ embodies a much larger message. Those who love you unconditionally will always be there to look into your welfare. This is true when you consider Bailey’s character. As life is about to drain out of his body he makes an unbreakable promise to his master, Ethan, that he will do whatever it takes to ensure their granddaughter, CJ’s safety. Thus, the story follows Bailey’s reincarnation and how he chases all obstacles to fulfil his promise.
Heartwarming moments
The most significant role in the film is the one which the canine realises his “purpose” comes at the beginning. Bailey, a spunky golden retriever, is adopted by Ethan in the 1960s. Given a good life and much love he witnesses the family being torn apart by Ethan and Hannah’s daughter, Gloria, as she prepared to take the couple’s granddaughter away. It is up to Bailey to try and fulfill a promise which would bring two generations together again.
The plus point in the film is its heartwarming moments of unconditional love and loyalty. It really drives home the message of what it means to love and to be loved back. Bailey is born as Max, Molly and many more yet seeks CJ out, always looking to keep her happy and safe. Since Bailey moves through several lives and realises his goal, the scenes do tend to become a bit repetitive and exhausting. Since the dog keeps reliving his purpose you can guess what happens in the end, be it a terminal illness, reunion or suspected death.
More than a charming tale
The film raises issues such as whether we really take care of our pets, or do they take care of us instead. ‘A Dog’s Journey’ is more than simply another charming tale of a man and his pet. It is a poignant tale of steadfast devotion and unconditional love.
Despite riding on the ‘cute’ factor, the film’s visuals purely serve its story. When a dog lives different lives, in different geographies and lives with people from various social, cultural, economical and racial backgrounds, how do the experiences vary and what insights does the dog gather? A narrative working in isolation is easy storytelling. Hollywood needs to up its game when it comes to canine films. For a therapeutic experience, there’s always a dog available off-screen.
The performances are quite charming. Dennis Quaid, Henry Lau, and Kathryn Prescott demonstrate what it’s like to love and be loved in return during a time when social media is cynical. Due to the nature of the movie, you won’t mind going on this journey. However, unlike ‘Marley and Me’, this one isn’t as heartwarming because it’s a little predictable. Emotional and sweet, this sentimental sequel is a tribute to all dog lovers across the globe as it captures the true bond between man and his best friend.
