Fall in love all over again! The fun-loving family film “Marley & Me” was unleashed on DVD and Blu-ray Tuesday, March 31.This loveable tear jerker brings out emotions in even the disparaging critics, reminding all of the loyalty and unconditional love found in “man’s best friend.”
For those not familiar, the film is based off non-fiction writer, American journalist and Penn. resident, John Grogan, and his best-selling novel. It was released in theatres on Christmas Day, 2008.
True to its breed, Marley is a rambunctious Labrador who finds its home with newlyweds John (Owen Wilson) and Jennifer (Jennifer Aniston). Labeled as being “the world’s worst dog,” Marley defies obedience, and, lacking any discipline, reeks havoc on all that comes in its path. The two sided pup has quite the personality, mimicking contradicting traits of sour and sweet. Between its destructive acts it surprisingly remains loveable. Through the chaos, a canine-human relationship begins to form, showing a love that is prevailing than any of the dog’s wild antics.
The ending is sure to bring out a tear in most, showing how a pet can induce emotion; bringing out the best and worst of any owner.
For those not interested in another canine based movie, it is important to note that the movie is not completely canine centered. It contains a storyline that is more based around John and Jen’s life; showing the struggles they face as a newly married couple. But Marley seems to steal the show regardless, and this fur ball of demolition is quite the fan favorite.
The loveable pooch and heartfelt story isn’t the only thing that is noteworthy. Location, Location, Location. Our very own town of West Chester can be recognized in some of the scenes. This summer the cast and crew visited the town; filming on West Gay and North Church Street.
So, if you think this family comedy may not be for you, seeing West Chester’s brush with fame may be.
Included in the DVD are deleted and extended scenes with an audio commentary feature, the casting of Marley, footage of the finalists in the Purina Dog Chow contest, the making of a scene, plus much more. Extended scenes show extra footage of the puppy’s escapades.
“Finding Marley” is an eight minute or so feature, showing the 22 different canines that were used to portray Marley through his different stages of life.
The Purina Dog Chow contest is a six minute feature that shows the final contestants performing tricks and talent through homemade video footage.
Following this feature is the Purina Dog Chow Video Hall of Fame, showing the best in homemade footage, tallying just over two minutes long.
Dog lovers might enjoy making Marley a part of their lives by bringing him home on DVD. For those not completely in love with the idea of canine/human relationships, a simple charge of a rental fee may be best.
Jen Neary can be reached at JN615188@wcupa.edu.