“Max” (2015)

Max

Brief Description: 

A military dog that helped American Marines in Afghanistan returns to the United States and is adopted by his handler's family after suffering a traumatic experience.

Date: 2015

Genre: American family adventure war drama film 

Running time: 1 hour 15 minutes 

Cast: 

Josh Wiggins (Justin Wincott)

Carlos (Max)

Dejon LaQuake (Chuy)

Thomas Haden Church (Ray Wincott)

Robbie Amell (Kyle Wincott)

Lauren Graham (Pamela Wincott)

Luke Kleintank (Tyler Harne)

Jay Hernandez (Sgt. Reyes)

Miles Mussenden (Maj. Miles)

Mia Xitlali (Carmen)

Owen Harn (Dep. Stack)

Joseph Julian Soria (Emilio)

Director: Boaz Yakin

Production/Distribution Company: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures, RatPac-Dune Entertainment, Sunswept Entertainment, & Warner Bros. Pictures

Wikipedia Page

Setting/Aesthetic/Feel: 4/5

Yeah, this film definitely had elements of the 2015 American summer vibes. It took me a while to figure out that although it appeared conservative, it wasn't religious; but it certainly was very stereotypical. 

Characters: 3/5

The only character I really liked was Carmen, although Chuy did redeem himself a tiny bit at the end, as did Justin. I hated Tyler; I disliked Ray except when he delivered an awesome speech to Justin; and Pam was okay. I liked the sergeant too, until he handed Justin classified military information... 

Plot: 3/5

I don’t know, it felt both predictable and startling? The ending especially didn't impress me. 

Romance: 2/5

Hint of romance between Carmen & Justin, culminating with Carmen giving Justin a big kiss. 

Theme/Message/Topics: 3/5

Renewed appreciation for war dogs & the PTSD fireworks can trigger. 

Content: 3/5

Mild euphemisms; teenage rebellion; Justin illegally rips and sells CDs; gun trafficking; drinking; a scene where American soldiers take over an Afghanistan town which I struggled with. 

Violence: 3/5

Shooting; car explosion causing a death; dangerous dogs. 

Overall: 3/5

It was okay, but I won't be rewatching it.