Jennifer Tilly and Dennis Quaid‘s latest family-friendly dog movie has drawn poor early reviews. Critics point out the film’s familiar story and execution.
A Dog’s Perfect Christmas arrived on Netflix today. Its story centers on a family struggling with grief and personal problems during the holidays. Quaid plays Sander, a widower who struggles to reconnect with his family after losing his wife. His dog, Winstead (voiced by Thomas Haden Church), narrates the story as the household faces several personal challenges.
While the movie has yet to get an RT score, the reviews currently listed are negative. Blu-ray.com‘s Brian Orndorf described the film as feeling like it was “created by a machine.” The review also criticized its lack of realism, writing that “everything is plasticized, including battles with life and death.”
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The outlet’s review also said the narrative treats serious problems as if they have easy fixes. Blu-Ray.com rated the film 3/10.
The Wrap‘s William Bibbani noted that the film feels like “content” rather than a genuine story, calling it a “seat-filler of a film.” The review also said the dog scenes add little depth to the plot. It also called the human elements a “weird tonal mishmash” that struggles to make its emotional moments feel convincing.
However, the review was not entirely negative. TheWrap said parts of the movie are “genuinely sweet” and called it a “cozy comfort watch” after a difficult first act. The critic also praised Quaid’s performance, noting that he brings humor and warmth to Sander’s character.
Audience reactions on Rotten Tomatoes are currently more favorable than the critical response. Several viewers praised the movie’s emotional story, performances, and holiday appeal, although the site has fewer than 50 audience ratings so far.
The film is directed by Cathryn Michon from a screenplay by W. Bruce Cameron. Cameron adapted his own novel of the same name for the film.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.
