My Life as a Dog

One of the most popular foreign films ever released in America, this charming and often heartbreaking 1985 classic about a young boy's summer adventures in a provincial town is highlighted by winning performances and a sure directorial hand from Oscar nominee Lasse Hallström. When Ingemar's (Anton Glanzelius) mother continues to decline in health, he and his brother are sent to separate places for the summer. Twelve-year-old Ingemar goes to live with his uncle's family in a rustic Swedish village, populated by eccentrics. Once there, he is befriended by a young tomboy (Tomas von Brömssen) with an impressive right hook. Together, the inquisitive pair get a glimpse at some of the concerns of adults: sex, loss, and the need for companionship. Throughout the film, young Ingemar reflects on the Soviet space odyssey of Laika the dog. All alone, circling the cosmos, Ingemar reasons, Laika must have been very brave. So is Ingemar. A special film about adolescence, My Life as a Dog makes its second appearance on DVD in this Criterion Collection edition that features a handsome new high definition digital transfer and a solid Dolby Digital mono soundtrack. Extras include a 19-minute interview with Hallström (who talks about adapting Reidar Jönsson's novel, directing ABBA's music videos, and working with the wonderful young cast), and his 53-minute 1973 debut film Shall We Go to My Place or Your Place or Each Go Home Alone?, a largely improvised slice of early '70s Stockholm nightlife. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (R. Pitman)[Blu-ray Review—Sept. 27, 2011—Criterion, 101 min., in Swedish w/English subtitles, PG-13, $39.95—Making its first appearance on Blu-ray, 1985's My Life as a Dog sports a great transfer and a mono soundtrack. Blu-ray extras are identical to the previous DVD release, including Hallström's 1973 debut film “Shall We Go to My or Your Place or Each Go Home Alone?”, with an intro by the director (52 min.); an interview with Hallström (19 min.); trailers; and a booklet featuring an essay by film critic Michael Atkinson and an appreciation by Kurt Vonnegut. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a beloved contemporary classic foreign film.]