Marley and Me Review

Starring: Owen Wilson, Jennifer Aniston, Alan Arkin, Kathleen Turner

"Marley and Me"

(WWLP) - "Marley and Me" is no one dimensional Disney fluff about a pugnacious pooch.

Instead, "Marley and Me" satisfies you as a far more richly rewarding experience.

It's a serious comedy that plucks at your heartstrings as it tickles your funny bone. Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston plan their lives together without a clue as to the joys and heartaches down the road.

Their lives will never be the same once they adopt Marley into the family. Theirs is a bittersweet relationship as Marley sort of grows on them as this sweetly sentimental picture grows on you.

When you realize how much substance there is to this movie, it's ironic that as Marley grows out of puppyhood, into a really large and assertive pooch.

Wilson's also coming to terms with his maturity. Although he doesn't tear up the rug and devastate the furniture, his growing pains can be just as clumsy.

When you realize the producers thought enough of "Marley and Me" to cast Alan Arkin, the best character actor in the business as Wilson's crusty boss, you can tell they had confidence in this movie. Apparently Marley isn't just man's best friend at home; he's also a creative inspiration.

"Marley and Me" makes you feel all the joys and heartaches that come with giving yourself over to your pet.

The tears and laughter flow freely enough to generate 3 stars. Let's throw Marley an extra bone just for stealing your heart.