Where i watched It: Peacock
English Audio Description?: Yes
I love dog movies. I don’t know why, but they have one hell of an ability to make me cry. I was an absolute mess at the end of Marley and me. I remember that My Dog Skip got me back in the day, and even A Dog’s Purpose had a moment (though the sequel did not). I didn’t cry during Strays. Think of Strays as the Sausage Party version of its predecessors. Hilarious, raunchy, and whip smart, Strays takes a look at things from a different perspective and puts them right in front of you. Ever wondered what your dog is thinking? I’m convinced, there was at least one dog in the writers vicinity at all times.
But, the movie starts out with a dog with a deeply unfortunate name being repeatedly dumped by his owner (Will Forte) who blames the dog on all his life’s failings. Eventually, he finally gets rid of shitstain (Will Ferrell), who then meets another stray (Kevin hart), who quickly gives him the rundown on things, including appropriate names.
Along the way, they meet up with our other leads Isla Fisher and Randall Park), two other dogs living the stray life. Park’s dog is stuck with a cone of shame, which makes him the butt of many jokes. Eventually, these pups decide the only appropriate way to handle their new friend’s predicament, is to have him bite his master’s dick off. So, these four adorable doggies hump and poop their way back to Forte’s house for a final confrontation.
I’m just happy we still make comedies like this, and release them to theatres. I was worried Strays never was coming out, as i think the first trailer I saw was in January. with that much press, you would think more people would have shown up.
It does go for some really easy and obvious jokes, and some are more nauseating than hilarious, but this is embracing its R-rated potential for sure. And, you have to roll with a spectrum of punchlines when that R rating hits.
The audio description does a good job of describing the breeds of the dogs, as there are more than just four, as well as whatever trouble they are getting into. It also was pretty strong in the final battle, where revenge is a dish best served to a dog.
Based on the reception this film has gotten, i might be a little too high on this, but I had a blast. i have no idea how rewatchable it is, but for the first time through, I enjoyed almost the whole thing, and that has to be worth something. Sure, it’s not an Oscar film, but neither was Sausage Party. Well, technically…. sausage Party was nominated for one.
Final Grade: A-
