SUN DOGS: Compellingly Unconventional

Jennifer Morrison has had a prominent presence in film and TV for a while, most notably her roles in House and Once Upon a Time. Now, with Sun Dogs, she’s made the transition to directing. When I heard the plot description for her feature debut I was intrigued. Sun Dogs wasn’t what I expected, but that was a good thing. The story diverges from common young adult fair, and it’s both heartwarming and funny.

It’s a movie that doesn’t have or need a grandiose scheme. Sun Dogs is about basic human connections and the desire to achieve one’s dream. The subtle charm throughout proves to be its most valued trait, allowing this debut to shine.

One’s Purpose Isn’t Easy To Find

Ned Chipley has an unusual routine. As the film starts, we get a taste of the monotony of his regimen. He does his workouts, records his progress (with polaroids) and, every year on his birthday, he takes a bus to the local Marine recruitment office to report his development.

All he wants is to save lives and serve his country. Unfortunately, his dream of becoming a Marine isn’t a realistic one.

Michael Angarano plays Ned, the kind young man at the center of this comedy/drama. The story takes place in California in 2004 and the 9/11 attacks still loom heavily over the country. This serves as the catalyst for his motivation.

Ned doesn’t let anything deter him. After several visits to the office, he gets a sit-down with the new Master Sgt. Jenkins (Xzibit). Jenkins doesn’t expect his zeal, and quickly finds out that Ned isn’t easily deterred. He misguidedly gives him hope in the shape of a fake position as a special operative, a “Sun Dog.” This stirs a local hunt for terrorists, extending to a delusional degree, involving Kinko-printed business cards and a constant reassurance to strangers that he’s working to protect this country.

Within his tedious job at a local casino, he meets Tully (Melissa Benoist), a beautiful but wounded young woman. Tully is as desperate for a purpose as Ned is, so when she believes his mission to be real, she clings to it. Together, the two form a genuine friendship from the groundwork of a fictional assignment. They spend their time in matching sunglasses, spying on Ned’s boss (Nicholas Massouh), and reporting back to Sgt. Jenkins.

Everybody Has A Dream

Ned lives with his mother Rose (Allison Janney), and her boyfriend Bob (Ed O’Neill). They’re both supportive of Ned (Bob even watches The Deer Hunter with him almost every night, which Ned fantasizes himself in), but they are also both striving for something else, something more. Everybody in the film is moving towards something, however gradually, while Ned is the one charging towards his goal.

Rose wants to be an EMT in New York City, Bob wants to find treasure and be financially sound, and Tully wants to be a filmmaker. None of the wishes seem trite, or unfeasible. In that way, Sun Dogs creates a palette of characters that flourish. Even if it doesn’t seem obvious at first, these are people you can relate to.

The character of Ned, and his off-beat personality, could have been used to excess. Instead, Morrison provides his story sensitively, delivering Ned and his eccentricities with magnanimous care. His winning qualities are brought forth through a witty script by Anthony Tambakis and Raoul McFarland, and the intricate story of hope and tenacity gives each character a worthy arc, providing the stellar cast adequate legroom.

All the performances are essential. Angarano gives a controlled but profound spin on the unique Ned. His altruistic intentions come across as endearing. Janney is terrific as always, as the humorous and nurturing Rose. O’Neill is wildly funny as Bob, but he also manages to give the character layers, when this supporting role could have easily been flaccid. Benoist, who you might recognize from Supergirl, aptly takes control of Tully in a way that’s tender and believable. Even Xzibit, and the small role by Morrison herself, are wonderful additions. The secondary lineup in its entirety work to bolster Ned’s resolve, keeping Sun Dogs focused and fun.

Morrison made an excellent choice for her debut. You can feel her warmth for the characters in her personal stamp on the story. It adds to this spirited tale of a person overcoming their limitations.

Conclusion: Sun Dogs

Some of the best moments are the unexpected, gentle ones.  The portrayals in this character-driven story will most likely embed themselves in your heart, while ensuring some laughter before the credits roll. It’s a worthy addition to the Netflix collection, and a encouraging beginning to Morrison’s directing career.

What did you think? Did you enjoy the film as much as I did?

Sun Dogs is currently streaming on Netflix.