This movie derives its comedy from a dog destroying everything much to the chagrin of a fastidious man. If that sounds funny, this movie is for you. The murder investigation and romantic subplots are barely window dressing in comparison to the ‘destructive dog’ narrative. That being said it’s very well done and all that, just be aware your mileage may vary wildly.
Closest comparison: It’s like Lethal Weapon by way of Beethoven.
Setting: Drama
Plot: Detective
Tone: RomCom
This is an understated contemplation on the nature of faith in the face of hopelessness. It boasts an unrelentingly bleak atmosphere that it douses with equally unrelenting heart. In true Don Bluth fashion the silliness is limited to a flavor of villain caricature and avoids affecting the plot. Instead, it allows the story themes to play out with a lot of depth without becoming too intense for more sensitive viewers. It’s masterfully executed and achieves its conservatively ambitious goal with real staying power for those not driven off by the family-friendly aesthetic.
Closest comparison: It’s like The Pursuit of Happyness by way of The Great Mouse Detective.
Setting: Crime
Plot: Adventure
Tone: Film Noir
