Embracing a Healthy Family: Christian Movies

Wholesome entertainment can be challenging which is why I gravitate towards Christian themed movies as I know it's safe to watch with my children around. We had an opportunity to review the upcoming release of Life With Dog from Mill Creek Entertainment. Life With Dog was written, directed, co-produced and starred by Corbin Bernson. For those that are a bit more seasoned, we remember him from L.A. Law, and honestly, after I read the credits, I was impressed in the fact that this was written by him.

The main character, Joe Bigler, has his life turned upside down after his religious wife dies in a bicycle accident. His wife, Alice, was a very formidable figure in his life as well as their daughter's. Alice, played by Marilu Henner, visits him in his mind from time to time while his daughter, played by Chelsey Crisp, provides the necessary character in keeping the story moving. As all three went to church, only two were committed to believing in God. As he tries to cope with her death, his daughter continues to try to provide comfort by bringing him closer to God. Not only is he fighting with his grief and his daughter, but he is also battling local businessmen who he is convinced wants to buy his property. In the midst of everything going on and his suspicions surrounding his wife's death, a scrappy dog appears.

Joe is a crusty sort of man. He is bitter and comes off a bit crotchety in his demeanor. His unlikely pairing with a dog he calls Dog, is the beginning of his journey for answers. His unexpected bonding with Dog helps him to see love and compassion differently. With his help, he finds truth and forgiveness.

We watched the movie at my eldest daughter's house and my granddaughter said:

"Dog is adorable!"

I found that I was drawn to continue watching to see where the story line was going to go. It was well written and well-acted by Mr. Bernsen as he was virtually in every scene. My husband and I thought the movie was interesting and liked that it had a Christian theme. It was touching at times and a little intense making it a good movie overall in our opinion. The ending was unexpected and had a bit of a twist. My older children liked Dog and after we watched it, I was able to explain it further that by having faith, God can help us get through anything. We would recommend it for families with older children.