The Art of Racing in the Rain

Based on Garth Stein’s bestselling 2008 novel, this dramedy centers on a golden retriever named Enzo (voiced by Kevin Costner) whose earnest owner, Denny Swift (Milo Ventimiglia), named him after Italian racing legend Enzo Ferrari. Set in Seattle, the tepid story opens as elderly Enzo is nearing death, so his esoteric reminiscences and erudite observations are presented as flashbacks. Denny’s goal is to achieve success as a race car driver; his particular skill is his ability to drive effectively and face adversity while racing in the rain. Along the way, Denny meets and marries angelic Eve (Amanda Seyfried). “Denny was clearly taken with her grooming,” Enzo warily observes. Eventually, of course, shaggy Enzo accepts Eve and becomes protective of their daughter Zoe (young Ryan Kiera Armstrong/teenage Lily Dodsworth-Evans). But there is no love lost between Enzo and Eve’s wealthy, disapproving parents (Kathy Baker, Martin Donovan). When he’s not in the car, Enzo loves to watch television with Denny, particularly a documentary about Mongolia where certain tribes believe that if dogs learn everything they’re supposed to learn they will be reincarnated as human beings. Directed by Simon Curtis, it’s a contrived, overly melodramatic entry in an increasingly crowded genre. Optional. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by director Simon Curtis, and the production featurettes “Behind the Wheel” (6 min.), “The Dog Stays in the Picture” (6 min.), “Enzo’s First Ride” (6 min.), “A Journey to Screen” (6 min.), “Directing the Art” (5 min.), and “Enzo Cam” (5 min.). Exclusive to the Blu-ray release is a bonus digital copy of the film. Bottom line: a solid extras package for an underwhelming canine drama.] (S. Granger)