Must Love Dogs

Starring: Diane Lane, John Cusack, Dermot Mulroney, Christopher Plummer, Stockard Channing, Elizabeth Perkins
Directed by: Gary David Goldberg
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Romantic Comedy
2005

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A recent divorcee (Diane Lane) is upset to learn her sister (Elizabeth Perkins) has signed her up on an internet dating site. Her attitude changes when she meets a boat builder (John Cusack). While she begins to fall for him, she also gets involved with another man (Durmot Mulroney), which complicates matters exponetially.

Review:

Tim: At first, the pairing of Diane Lane and John Cusack seems quite strange. Even after seeing the film, they still don't seem right for each other. And yet, I am such a huge fan of Lane and especially Cusack, that I just had to like this movie. As I think back to it, there is a lot wrong with this film, but acting under the spell of Lane and Cusack, I couldn't help myself- I enjoyed this movie far more than I should have. It is important to note that this movie rests solely on the charisma of Lane and Cusack. The movie is better for it.

As far as romantic comedies go, this one is fairly moderate. It isn't particularly bad, but not stunning, either. Romantic comedies are by definition pretty formulaic, and despite a few bright moments, follows the typical pattern. While this one doesn't stray very far, it offers a slight variation, which is much appreciated.

What this movie comes down to is the strength of its stars. It is amazing to me that a lackluster script can be saved by the power of its two leading roles. I'd like to have found this movie less enjoyable, but I became mesmerized by Lane and Cusack.

One qualm I had with this film is that it seems to try to incorporate new technologies involving dating into the rom-com formula, like was done with You've Got Mail. I hope this film did not set out to be like that movie, because while Lane and Cusack are great, they are no Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.

Must Love Dogs is flawed, but I anticipate you will like it much more than you would expect. It is prett enjoyable, even if it's not particularly original.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: You've Got Mail, Say Anything, Serendipity, Unfaithful