User reviews

I remembered the commercials for this film. Oh boy. Another cute puppy movie. Then I heard Siskel & Ebert review it and was amazed that they LOVED it. It took a few years before I finally rented it, but I must say that I agree with them. Just like "Babe" is more than a cute animal movie, "Fluke" is more than a dog movie for the kids. A good bittersweet tale that makes me hope for reincarnation.

Fluke is directed by Carlo Carlei who also co-adapts the screenplay with James Carrington from the novel written by James Herbert. It stars Matthew Modine, Eric Stoltz, Nancy Travis, Ron Perlman, Bill Cobbs, Jon Polito and Samuel L. Jackson. Music is scored by Carlo Siliotto and cinematography by Raffaele Mertes.

Workaholic Thomas Johnson is killed in an auto accident and is reincarnated as a dog. As he grows from pup to adult dog he starts to remembering things from his human life and sets about piecing together exactly who he was and what happened to him.

It was a box office flop, a hard sell anyway with its cross genre themes, but MGM didn't know how to market it. Was it an animal adventure for the kids? A family drama message movie? Or a metaphysical bit of dalliance? Truth is is that it is all three, an engagingly thoughtful movie that is flavoured by fantastical whimsy whilst also beating a poetic heart. There's humour in here, too, especially when Fluke teams up with the wise and shaggy Rumbo (Jackson). But predominantly picture is about emotional beats, sitting in that void between genuine warmth and tragedy. It's unashamedly sentimental, but that's a good thing, and it's not just confined to the animal aspects of the story, this is still a very real human drama. The messages within are handled with care, there's no beating us over the head here.

Director Carlei disappeared from Hollywood after the failure of Fluke, which is a shame since he crafts a great picture of strength. His dog POV camera work is smart in bringing us into Fluke's world, and many shots are gorgeously framed and filmed by director and photographer alike. It's also admirable in how he handles the excellent canine actors (Comet as Fluke is mightily impressive and expressive), it's no disgrace to the human actors to say the canines own the movie. There's some implausibilities, obviously, and one or two moments are too surreal for their own good; a laboratory break out sequence is cheer worthy but Carlei overdoes it, but this is still a lovely and interesting movie. Just like the great John Herbert's novel is for adults, so is the film. You can watch it with the kids for sure, so long as you have the fortitude to discuss with them the film's inner workings. 8/10

Sometimes sad, more often funny look at a dog viewing us humans from a peculiar perspective. Nice little show with a good message about family, quality time, and not taking things for granted. Plus, the animal actors were some of the best I've seen. Cool show. P.S. If I ever get reincarnated, I hope it's as Sandra Bullock's #1 man. Or Faith Hill. Or Jane Seymour. Or....

To someone picking up this little flick without bothering to go into it a bit more, you are probably expecting some Disney-like movie (Just look at the box cover) and the premise even suggest it: A man is reincarnated as a dog and goes on a search to find his family. Boy, was I surprised. Not only is the dog trying to find his family, he's out for revenge against the man who put him in the situation in the first place. Full of mature themes and gripping moments, this is one of those rare movies that will definitely make you think and- as stated by everyone else here- shed a few tears.

We follow Fluke from puppyhood to adulthood as he starts trying desperately to find out who he once was. After putting 2 and 2 together, Fluke does indeed set out on a journey to find his wife and son, much to the dismay of his ill-fated friend Rumbo, a dog who was also human. When Fluke finds them, he's living the good life- that is, until his crooked business partner comes in and crashes the party. Fluke is determined to make sure he won't do any harm to his family as he did to him. But is Fluke going by truth, or what he wants to believe?...

The main thing about this movie that hit me at first was the music. The beautiful orchestra soundtrack accompanied this film perfectly. There were a few times I watched the credits simply to hear the music. And of course, what's good music without good filmography to go with it? This movie has that too. Some of the most bright, natural filming can be seen with the dog as he braves mountains and rivers on his long journey, or during the more peaceful moments as he plays with his family out in the sunshine. All in all, the filming and soundtrack itself is definitely a step up from a few of the more well-known animal movies, like Homeward Bound for instance.

The story itself is very unpredictable, another thing I was not expecting from a movie such as this. Fluke's acts and visions will keep you watching to find out the real story behind his past. But while he's fending away his partner, he's trying to convince his family that he's more than just some old dog. Many of these scenes had me stop the movie just to pull myself together, such as when he did his "fatherly" duties of tucking his son in and laying on his side of the bed during the night.

Acting in the movie ranges from good to alright. It's not the best acting in the world, but the humans weren't the ones I paid attention to and even then, the dogs still had the best lines and voicing, despite the fact that they talked only for a short while. The little boy had to be the most irritating of all though, especially in scenes when he was distressed in any way. I also feel the lab scene could have been executed a bit better. That scene seemed to pass by too quickly or just put in the middle of the movie with no purpose, but it did help explain a major event, so I can't complain.

In conclusion: Fluke is a timeless gem and a very impressive attempt at a family drama from such an unknown director. The filmography, score, and plot itself made this movie one of best animal-oriented movies of the last century. Only the acting from the humans and a few of the sometimes out-of-place scenes hurt the movie just a tad, but not enough to stop me from giving this underrated movie the recommendation it truly deserves.

I don't know if it was a "fluke" or not (pun intended), but they really made a good and worthwhile movie here. Despite some familiar "kid-movie" trappings (actually, when you first hear the two dogs "talking" to each other you may be disappointed that yet another movie has used that gimmick, but at least the other dog is voiced by Samuel Jackson), this film isn't very accessible to kids; it's very unusual, rather grim and pretty much of a downer. Older viewers, though, should appreciate the consistently interesting story, the excellent cinematography and the remarkable "performances" by the dogs; their trainers really did a great job. (***)

Well, I usually do not weep watching a movie, but this dog Fluke made me shed tears from beginning to the (somewhat bitter) end. The story is completely unbelievable, so what!, but very funny all the way. Can't understand what those people's hearts are made of that do not like a story like this. I'd rather watch Fluke ten times than Rambo once!

Native Atlantan here; caught the movie surfing. Heartwarming to see Atlanta. Never watch movies starring animals but for MILO AND OTIS. Atlanta is why I continued. Yet reincarnation is an interest of mine, and so is animal testing. As it went along, I found the dialog intelligent and the educational subplots worthy. And Nancy Travis's face was familiar, as was Bill Cobb's and Max Pomeranz. I've always like Eric Stoltz and Matt Modine anyway. This movie is literal, maybe too much so for under 14. Teens interested in animal testing will rejoice in one scene, laugh happily and applaud. And for adults, it's a nicely provocative take on reincarnation; heartwarming, reaffirming and warm.

Just a truly fine film. Made me cry, and I rarely cry on seeing a movie. I intend to get a copy of it. Few movies have touched me as much. Daily, we are exposed to ever more sex and violence in the media, but the accent found here is love. And forgiveness. And, of course, racial harmony. If it "exploited" our ability to care for others and to respect life, so much the better. This is a movie for people of all ages. The animal wranglers did an outstanding job, ditto the actors. Have not seen the dog who played Fluke before; wonder if he is still in the acting business.Would be glad to see more films of similar ilk, but I have not run across many like this.

I'm a huge dog lover, but I must be honest the film's poster made me believe 'Fluke' to be a comedy aimed at a young demographic. I couldn't have been more wrong, and was therefore pleasantly surprised.

Although the film does contain quite a bit of humour, this is predominantly a drama - and a rather emotional one at that! Boy, if this film doesn't tug at the heartstrings, you must be solid as a rock!

Oh, those puppy eyes! The dog is so cute and adorable; absolutely precious! Matthew Modine stars as Thomas, who dies in a car crash and is reincarnated as a dog named Fluke. Fluke's previous life (as a human) is shown through Fluke's back flashes and memories. Remembering something bad was about to happen shortly before his untimely death, Fluke realizes he has to reach his family as soon as possible. I enjoyed this danger element, as well.

Ron Perlman stars as the film's antagonist, Sylvester, who has an ace up his sleeve. 'Fluke' deals with so many different elements, I thought it was engaging and captivating. But get the tissues handy for this one because you're going to need it!

'Fluke' was so much better than expected. I loved it!

The themes of death and reincarnation were too much for my 6 year old. She cried for 45 minutes after the movie.

'Fluke' isn't my favourite film, but it comes close. (Powder is my favourite movie) Usually a lot of animal movies come out with crazy and over the top antics, but this one, this is different, it has quite a unique and interesting plot, not just the average animal movie plot about a 'kid and his dog'. Oh No, 'Fluke' is different, its a lot more special than that. I cannot say that there aren't mistakes, but still when you watch you can feel the magic of the movie and you don't really notice anything wrong with it. Anyway, this is a very weepy film; it is bound to make you cry, if you are either a sensitive adult or a child. This film made me cry about three times, but then again I am a very soppy person when is comes to weepy movies of any kind.

If your wandering if its worthy of your viewing then I'll tell you now, it is completely and utterly worthy of anyone's viewing. If you see it in a video store and you haven't rented it out before, then rent it out, watch it, it's a brilliant film. The animal actors are superb, and I just loved this film, real tearjerker. Well I'm going to stop repeating myself and let you decide on your opinion on it. See it's a top movie! Oh and one more thing, the message in this film is quite a common message that is portrayed in a lot of films but the way this film does it, is very unique and powerful. Thanks for reading this!

9 out 10

Huge_Movie_Fan-‘Powder'-Movie-Lover!!!

I am a male of 37yrs who first watched fluke a few years ago. Recently i purchased both the D.V.D,The Video and also the book. Every time i watch this film,i cry like a 5yr old kid!!!Its so bad that i have to watch it on my own, and its a running joke amongst my friends...as they know the state I'm in whilst watching it!! This film is at first just another shaggy-dog story, but if you read into its meaning, it really makes you wonder about living life to the full, appreciating what you have in life, and realising that there are no 2nd chances... The film begins after he dies in the crash, and from here on in...it just gets worse!! First, he has to say goodbye to his Doggy-mum,which cuts me up every time....then he sees his friend Bella,the tramp, die. But the WORST part is when his old friend dies by the lake,after being shot..God this film is a KILLER at times!!! At this point i sob like a baby!! Then when poor Fluke finally tracks down his old family,he comes to realise that they would be better off being left alone, and move on.... The scene by the Gravestone, when she realises just who Fluke is, as he scrapes away the snow to reveal his name, is one of the most moving pieces of film I've ever seen!! But at the VERY end, something nice happens...he meets his old friend again!!!! This film is just SOOOOOOO BRILLIANT!!!!Gary Edwards

This movie is one of the saddest movies I've seen, just because of when the dogs are in trouble, and also when they're lonely or hurt. I really like how the story is about a dog who is transformed into a human to find his family; it was pretty cool. I would reccommend a big box of tissues for this movie-just to be prepared.

Fluke is the best family drama I have ever watched because this film is the only one that made me cry. I would recommend it to everyone who likes movies about dogs, however you will need hankies to watch this one. If you have a chance to watch it, to pick it in your video-club, don't miss it! You will be thrilled!!!

James Herbert's Fluke is great material for a screen version. One of his few non-horror tales (and in many ways more of a fairy tale than anything else), it has the potential of a great movie.

So what does Carlo Carlei do? He stuffs the film with slo-mo violin-choked scenes that clash completely with the moody and poignant promise of the opening scene (and Herbert's book as well) and leaves out the book's most hilarious scene with the cat and the old lady.

This could have been on a par with Babe. As it is, I'll add points for Eric Stolz, the dog and camera work (which is truly outstanding) and subtract just as many for Nancy Travis, direction and music - Yeech!

A very nice movie. The fact that the main star is a dog DOES NOT make it a kids movie, just like "Bad Moon" isn't. But while Bad Moon is a horror movie starring a dog, this is a drama starring a dog.

Very touching and very sad and doesn't follow your usual cliches for such movies. I don't cry in movies (though I really really try!), but some movie make me almost cry and this is one of them!

Fluke is a family movie whom someone couldn't give so much credit.

In my opinion it's great. I always loved pets and non-domestic animals so I can truly believe they've got a soul.

In the movie, a young child loses his father, but for magic his soul transmigrates in a dog. With some clues, Fluke the dog will be accepted as the reincarnation of the dear daddy.

I've lost my father at the age of 3. Sometimes is very hard think of it but I've got a special feeling with my cat. She's with me since 11 years (now I'm 26), I can see in her eyes a true spirit, like an angel standing by.

With the help of this movie I've raised the conviction that animals should be guiding souls of exhaled dears for us.

Yes, I still believe, though my "old" age, in such romantic things.

----- My vote: 8 1/2 -----

I have seen this movie when I was 7/8 years old and it was my favorite movie. I owned a dog that was my entire life and at times I would believe she understood me, that she knew what I was trying to communicate to her, that I loved her and she was my best friend forever.

This movie had a huge impact on my childhood. I thought the name "fluke" was adorable (in Latin Spanish we kept the original name) and I also thought the fact that enjoying life every single second was the way to live felt real and exactly how I felt, even if I was so small. I lived every second to the fullest and I knew I was happy.

My dog passed away years later and I promised her that she will be in our hears forever. Other dogs were highlighting my life but she was the first to teach me how to live and sadly, life happened as a grown up and I have suffered things that no one should go through. Today it just happen to cross by this movie and I was surprised and excited to reconnect to my childhood, a bit scared too because I knew I was going to cry. And I did cry a river while watching it. It has remind me of my little me, my dog, my family and how I used to love life. I know there is still in me that sweet girl with her dog that felt that life was just wonderful and that love is what is all about.

I just wanted to share this perhaps only to myself but this movie brought me back to childhood and to remember what really matters in life: love.