Not just for Christmas.. (Marley & Me (DVD))

Member Name: AmyAmy

Product:	Marley & Me (DVD)
Date:	21/06/09 (27 review reads)
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There are some films that I often ponder over for a while, unable to decide whether I should spend that few quid to go into the cinema to see them. One of these was Marley and Me, and in the end I had chose against seeing it. Though since then I've had the chance to see it on DVD (albeit a copy...) and I must say, I wish I had taken the opportunity to see it on the big screen!

After moving to Florida, John Grovan buys his wife Jennifer a gorgeous golden Labrador puppy, which they name Marley. Though he grows up to be an enormous 100lb dog who is scared of thunderstorms, reluctant to be trained and very energetic. The dog is not the only love if their lives though, as they begin to have a family. Will they be able to keep Marley, a boisterous 'clearance dog', while there are little children around, or will they be forced to make uneasy decisions?

The plot of this film to begin with is amazing, it's definitely like non other I have seen. It develops in such a way that a huge chunk of their lives happen in often no more than a few minutes, yet it is never a challenge to keep up with what is happening. It's a very fast moving film at times, and with Marley in the spotlight, nothing less could be expected! This unique plot is a winner with me for sure.

One reason I go to see films is because of its cast. Now Marley and Me has two of the best actors around as its main characters. Owen Wilson is cast as John Grogan, and I feel there is no character better suited for the part. I loved him in Night at the Museum, and You Me and Dupree to name just two of his successes, and now I love him in this! Jenny Grogan is appropriately played by one of America's greatest actresses, Jennifer Aniston. She is probably best known as Rachel from Friends, but has also gave memorable performances in films such as Along Came Polly, The Break Up and Rumor Has It. She is the perfect woman for the part; a wonderful actress for sure. There were three stages of Marley: puppy Marley, Marley, and Adult Marley. In that order, they were played by Woodson, Jonah and Clyde. Woodson aside, the other two dogs had had their appearances in films before, and I am sure they will continue to melt people's hearts in showbiz! I could not have cast a better bunch of actors myself, I am thrilled with them here.

The film itself lasts two hours, which is actually rather long for a film nowadays, as they usually average at 90 minutes. Though it went extremely quickly, the unfortunately painful ending rushing closer and closer as each minute sped by. It was released in the cinemas in March 2009, so it's not been out incredibly long, but I am still surprised it has taken me this long to track down a copy! Rated PG, it is something for the whole family, but I can assure you it will reduce you to tears, no matter what age you are!

This is an amazing film and nothing less. It is definitely worth seeing if you can track down a copy, and the DVD is released next month too which I am sure I will be buying. There is not a bad word I can say about it, it is truly exceptional. Directed by David Frankel (Sex in the City, Devil Wears Prada), it is superbly put together and is utter enjoyment to watch. It will bring out all sorts of emotions in you, you'll have no regrets. If you get a chance, give this a watch - and take tissues!

© Amy 2009

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