Strays is a raunchy live-action comedy film that offers a unique and uncensored perspective on the lives of canines. Starring the voices of Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx, this movie takes viewers on a wild journey filled with dogs peeing, dogs pooping, dogs humping, dogs puking, dogs talking dirty, and dogs getting high. While the plot revolves around a group of dogs facing various obstacles while traveling a great distance, it’s important to note that this film is not suitable for children.
The story centers around Reggie, an adorable Border Terrier, who remains fiercely loyal to his abusive owner, Doug. Doug often attempts to rid himself of Reggie by playing a dangerous “game” that involves leaving him stranded in unfamiliar places after long drives. But Reggie always manages to find his way back home. However, when Reggie gets lost in a big city, he befriends Bug, a foul-mouthed Boston Terrier who exposes Doug’s true nature. Reggie is determined to return home not for a joyful reunion, but to exact revenge on Doug. Joining Reggie on his quest are Maggie, an Australian Shepherd with an exceptional sense of smell, and Hunter, an anxiety-ridden Great Dane who works as a therapy dog after failing out of the canine police academy.
Dan Perrault’s screenplay is filled with relentless humor and vulgarity. It’s evident that Perrault thoroughly researched and explored canine behavior to extract every ounce of comedy from it. The film showcases the dogs engaging in a mass breakout where they distract their guard by defecating en masse. Bizarre yet amusing scenes like this, along with Maggie talking dirty to help Hunter reach the keys with his enlarged pink penis, will leave audiences simultaneously shocked and entertained.
Despite its crude humor, Strays manages to deliver a heartfelt message about the love and loyalty shared between humans and their pets. The film serves as a reminder to cherish and care for our canine companions. Additionally, Strays warns against allowing dogs to consume wild mushrooms, which can result in their getting intoxicated, a scenario that unfolds in the movie.
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To depict the dogs “talking,” CGI animation is used, creating the uncanny effect of moving doggie lips. Although the film incorporates other visual tricks, such as depicting squirrels and eagles, the real dogs in the film are incredibly well-trained performers. They deliver complex and nuanced performances that rival those of human actors.
Directed by Josh Greenbaum, Strays occasionally feels thin and repetitive despite its brief runtime of 93 minutes. There are only so many times audiences can find humor in dogs consuming vomit. However, the film compensates for this with its sheer volume of laughs and the talent of its star-studded voice cast. Will Ferrell brings his trademark naivety to his role, reminiscent of his performance in “Elf,” while Jamie Foxx tackles his rapid-fire, profanity-laden material with gusto similar to Richard Pryor. Isla Fisher’s charming Australian accent adds to the film’s comedic appeal, and Randall Park brings deadpan humor to his portrayal of a Great Dane with insecurities.
The supporting voice cast includes Rob Riggle and Josh Gad as enthusiastic K-9 dogs, as well as Sofia Vergara in a seductive couch cameo. And yes, the film finds a way to make a couch seductive, which is a clever nod to the quirky behavior of dogs. Furthermore, Strays features a delightful cameo by a famous actor who has starred in successful dog-themed movies, enhancing the overall enjoyment for viewers.
For those wondering whether Reggie completes his mission of revenge, rest assured that Will Forte proves himself a good sport in the film, and Miley Cyrus’ hit song “Wrecking Ball” will never sound the same again.
In conclusion, Strays is a wild and raunchy comedy that offers a unique perspective on the lives of dogs. While it may not be suitable for children, it manages to deliver a heartfelt message about the importance of loving and caring for our beloved pets. With its talented voice cast, clever humor, and entertaining storyline, Strays is an enjoyable film for canine enthusiasts and comedy lovers alike.
