Dog Lover's Symphony

This is quite possibly the worst movie I have ever seen. The best actors are the dogs, the script sounds worse than a yapping terrier and the plot needs to be scooped up and tossed into a plastic baggie. Although it had a promising start, Dog Lover's Symphony quickly took a turn for the worse. The romance between ex-convict and dog trainer is so hackneyed and the "acting" is so devoid of emotion--of anything, really--that this movie is bound to bore humans and dogs alike. Also, this "family" movie does not have any children in it whatsoever. The story revolves around a lackluster, PG-rated romance between two adults, which has a cheesy, melodramatic ending that merely seals this movie's fate. Do not watch.

Jerry (Jesse Bernstein) is a troubled young man who has become involved with gang activity. But, although he is headed in the wrong direction, a caring parole officer, Tom (Maxwell Caulfield) sees some good hiding in his interior. He arranges for Jerry to train dogs with his beautiful daughter, Susan (Alaina Kalanj) as part of his parole requirements. At first, Jerry is most reluctant and his commitment is tenuous. However, due to the extreme kindness of Tom and Susan, he begins to turn his life around. In fact, there may be a mutual attraction between Jerry and Susan, if only she weren't nearly engaged to that stuffed-shirt, go-getter John (Sean Foley). Will Jerry become a model citizen and win Susan's heart, too? This is a nice film with plenty of feel-good moments, except for the inane ending. What is that, you ask? I'm not telling. Caulfield and Bernstein give nice performances, although Bernstein is not my idea of a genuine leading man. But, it is Kalanj that steals the film. She is utterly beautiful and has a zesty, natural acting ability that reminds the viewer of Marisa Tomei. The movie world can only hope to see much more of her. Then, too, although she dresses down to train dogs, her "dress-up" costumes are of the knock-out variety. The rest of the costuming is acceptable and the scenery is pleasant, too. Best of all, the dogs in the film are delightful. If you love animals and/or romantic dramas, try this one on for size. I think you will like it but the end will definitely leave you shaking your head.