Ever wonder what goes on in the mind of animals. What do dogs and cats think about? How is the world viewed from their perspective? If this sounds like “Secret Life of Pets,” then you are mistaken. Actually, you wouldn’t be far off. The upcoming adult comedy film “Strays” takes the concept of “Secret Life of Pets” and combines it with raunchy humor of movies such as “Van Wilder” and “American Pie” for a new laugh-out-loud comedy that is certain to entertain. I kept my expectations for this film at a medium level just in case things go south. Thankfully, that was not the case as the laughs began right from the gate and kept going even when Strays touched serious moments. Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx play well off each other with Ferrell portraying the naïve Border terrier Reggie and Fox as the streetwise Boston terrier Bugg. It is interesting how the dynamic between their characters works so well together when they are on opposite ends of the spectrum. And the supporting cast of Isla Fisher as Australian shepherd Maggie and Randall Park as Great Dane therapy dog Hunter do not disappoint in contributing to the outrageousness. There is crude humor, adult themes and toilet jokes that will have you widening your eyes in disbelief and dropping your jaw in shock before letting out a belly laugh that will make Santa jealous. If you have watched “Bad Santa”, the “American Pie” films or MAX’s “Harley Quinn” series, you know what I am talking about.
The Wild Dogz (L to R): Reggie (Will Ferrell), Maggie (Isla Fisher), Hunter (Randall Park), Bugg (Jamie Foxx)
Even with all its sexual innuendos and trippy mushroom hallucinations, Strays does touch on a real-world situation with people treating their pets unfairly and how animals can lose their trust in humans. This little film conveys the thoughts of the mistreated pets in its own way and allows them to get their revenge on their bad owners as well as have them learn how to trust humans again. Strays is a stupidly fun comedy film in the vein of “Look Who’s Talking Now” with the humor of “Animal House” that will have your slapping your knee with laughter, reminding us that it is okay to enjoy rancid humor and have a good time. I certainly did.
4 out of 5.
Strays Official Trailer (Viewer Discretion is Advised)
