A film about modern romance and the notion that a dog park is the singles bar of the late '90s. A young man, whose girlfriend has just left him and taken their dog, falls for another woman who is also on the rebound, but ... more »prefers the company of her dog to the company of men.« less
Actors:Zachary Bennett, Amie Carey, Gordon Currie, Diane Flacks, Janeane Garofalo Genres:Comedy Sub-Genres:Comedy Studio:New Line Home Video Format:DVD - Color - Closed-captioned DVD Release Date: 03/02/2004 Original Release Date: 09/24/1999 Theatrical Release Date: 09/24/1999 Release Year: 2004 Run Time: 1hr 31min Screens: Color Number of Discs: 1 SwapaDVD Credits: 1 Total Copies: 0 Members Wishing: 0 MPAA Rating: R (Restricted) Languages:English
"Sometimes movies just work better on television then on the big screen. Bruce McCulloch's Dog Park is one of those instances where without the expectations that paying 10 bucks brings to a movie, a small film's charm can come through. The story here is really not much of one. Guy gets dumped, girl takes dog, guy walks around complaining about girl who gets dog, and guy then starts falling for another girl with other dog. Yet without an over-bearing plot, the fun of Dog Park comes through, as the characters are given the leverage to express whatever feelings they have about their dating lives. Luke Wilson brings a down to earth quality to his role as Andy, the down-on-his-luck romantic. Wilson gives his character a believable bewilderment about his continuing troubles with the opposite sex. The big surprise here is Natasha Henstridge, making her character Lorna someone who you could actually meet in a bar. Even though she?s a knockout, the leggy blond is actually able to fit in nicely to the day-to-day quality of the film.The dialogue is very sitcom like, but on the boob tube that's not a problem. Wilson's and Janeane Garofalo's characters, chat about relationships in almost the same way that Jerry and Elaine talked about dating on Seinfeld. The only difference is the characters are far more endearing. Garofalo?s natural likeability for example, is able to shine through in her small, yet very key role.Dog Park has more sweet then funny moments, there isn't per say a laugh-out-loud instance in the movie. But Dog Park does have a brisk lightness to it with characters who you don't mind spending 90 minutes with. Think of it as a nice sit down with friends movie, that is much better than what is normally on TV."
Subtle and clever spin on love stories
denised727 | Milwaukee, WI United States | 01/23/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"for those who need explosions, julia roberts, or buses that can't slow down in order to enjoy a film, this one is not for you. Dog Park is a smart romantic comedy, brilliantly directed and with a great soundtrack to boot (esp. rox sexsmith). the viewer is treated to the added bonus of the chemistry between bruce mccolluch and mark mckinney and between the brothers wilson. not a character is wasted in this film-- rare for a genre that thrives off superfluous "best friend" roles. there are no mere "best friends" in this romantic comedy that not only amuses, but makes subtle assertions about the the human heart. mccolluch's visionary direction makes great use of his talented, all-star cast. mccolluch won't spoonfeed the viewer. if you're not willing to think while viewing, you best watch buy yourself a mainstream american comedy, perhaps something starring david spade."
What can I say...
Andie | San Jose, California | 05/31/2000
(4 out of 5 stars)
"To fully understand the nature of this film, you would truly have to identify yourself with the comedic artistry of Bruce Mcculloch. This film is brilliant and unlike the common everyday "Hollywood" romantic comedy, it is original and almost anyone can relate to it. Bruce Mcculloch is truly one of the best writer/comedic talent of this generation. If you had seen it once and as closed minded as you are, didn't like, I strongly recommend that you watch some episodes from "The Kids in the Hall", then watch this film for the second time. You will notice that your mind is much more open and broader than the first time. You will then know that not only was I right, but the other reviewers as well...Believe me, you will truly enjoy this masterpiece! Brucio, you are a genius!"
Fine and intelligent
Rodrigo Medina | Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro Brazil | 12/17/2000
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Dog park is one of those romantic comedies that make you feel better after you watch it. The plot focus on relationships and shows how hard it is to find the ONE in your life. Andy (Luke Wilson) is a guy who has just broke with his girlfriend (Kathleen Roberson), and who misses the dog they have, who now lives with her. Kind of depressed, he tries to find comfort in a single's bar, where he meets Lorna (Natasha Henstridge) who is also feeling lonely. After a disastrous first date, they stop seeing each other, trying to meet new and interesting people, which may seems hard. This film proves that whenever you want to find someone to love, you just have to be opened to the least expected possibilities. This movie has very inteligent dialogues, and weird theories about relationships, like the "dating chain"(watch to find out what it is!). It is also a very creative movie, with memorable scenes, such as the bachelor auction, when Andy is "bought" by a girl crazy for sex.This is the perfect film to rent/buy and watch several times!"
One of my favorites
Beth Kratwell | 10/15/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I love this movie! And I agree with a lot of people on here if you aren't a Bruce fan or Kids in the hall fan, you might not like it. But there are some really funny parts/lines. There is one I use often...but it's too naughty to print here=) I give it 2 thumbs up!"