'Marley' Will Make You Cry

The wife and I saw 'Marley & Me' last night, and I can't remember the last time I cried that hard (yes, I am sappy).

The story is simple--a writer buys a puppy for his wife in preparation for children. The dog ends up being a holy terror, yet teaches everyone about life in the process. The story progresses through life's trials and tribulations as well as the priceless moments of having a family. The story is real, based on a true story, and teaches some valuable lessons.

Critics didn't care for this movie for various reasons, and for those who haven't read the book this "family holiday film" can be a little shocking (yet expected) at the end. Still, people need to remember that the author didn't intend for the movie to be solely about the silly antics of a disobedient dog--it's about life, family, changes, and unconditional love.

I easily related to this film, being a dog lover with an older dog, a guy who questions what he wants to do with his career, and someone who's about to have two boys (in two weeks). It was no coincidence that every aspect of this film touched me in one way or another.

See the movie, but be prepared to cry as well as laugh.