If you missed Luc Besson’s latest movie in theaters, then you’ll be glad to know that the Dogman Blu-ray is now available for purchase. Featuring a celebrated performance by its lead, Caleb Landry Jones, the film is an interesting look at the abused and how society can continue pushing them away, plus the connection between man and animal.
“From acclaimed director Luc Besson (The Fifth Element, The Professional), DogMan tells the story of a man who, following a traumatic childhood, finds salvation and justice through his connection with dogs,” reads the film‘s synopsis.
With a runtime of 114 minutes, Dogman is a character study focusing on Jones’ Douglas Munrow. We’re introduced to the character getting pulled over while in full drag. The movie then takes place through a series of flashbacks as Munrow is interrogated by Jojo T. Gibbs’ Evelyn, a psychiatrist. It runs through his traumatic past that left him disabled, only to find enjoyment through art and a strong bond with dogs.
There’s also a crime story at play as Munrow attempts to look out for other outcasts, using his dogs to harm local thugs through orders. He even winds up pulling off heists orchestrated solely by dogs. It’s admittedly outlandish and seems to be the divisive point for many, but it’s also fun to watch. The most interesting scenes, though, take place at a local cabaret as Munrow performs weekly, showing an entirely different side of himself. It winds up being a true struggle of self-expression as he struggles to stay upright — he’s typically in a wheelchair.
Gorgeously shot with great acting, Dogman remains a visual delight thanks to the high-definition transfer. The end result is particularly exciting as Jones is going to reteam with Besson for an upcoming Dracula movie. As Jones explained to me in an interview earlier this year, he admires working with the director because he’s true to his word and is a part of every element of the film.
“I’ve never worked with anybody that shot the film, that wrote the film — every aspect of making it, he’s a part of. He’s on top of. The way he works with the crew, the way he gets what he knows he needs. He’s someone that you can really trust and follow when making a film. We had a great time making this and a lot of impossible things that we made possible. I’m looking to do that again,” said Landry
Unfortunately, there is one negative about the Dogman Blu-ray, and that’s the total lack of bonus features. You’ve got English and French subtitles, but nothing else can be found. I would’ve loved to hear Jones talk more about the film’s themes and his performance as he really goes all out, continuing his streak of being one of the most interesting actors currently working.
Dogman Blu-ray Review: The final verdict
Upon watching the Dogman Blu-ray, it remains one of 2024’s most interesting films. It’s a movie that doesn’t succeed on all cylinders but is carried by yet another impressive performance by Caleb Landry Jones. Interesting both in composition and themes, it is Besson’s best since 2014’s Lucy and fits into his eccentric filmography. While it’s always disappointing to see a total lack of bonus features, the art is strong enough to stand on its own and be more than worthwhile.
Disclosure: ComingSoon received the product from the publisher for our Dogman Blu-ray review.
