After watching “My Dog the Space Traveler” for a time, I thought, “This sure is a dysfunctional family.” But there is a definite pay-off and the filmmakers demonstrate by the end of the picture that love is the most powerful force on Earth. Until then, we see a dad who is out of work, drinks a lot and yells at his son; a daughter yelling at her mother and even calling her a name behind her back; the mother and dad fighting constantly and the mother taking to her bed to sleep all day. At the same time, little promising signs occur including a scene in which dad Vernon makes a meal for his wife Pearl, the first time he has ever done so. Also, during the course of the film Dad reminds Mom that her son needs her love, and she does the same to him in another scene.
The movie features humor as well. For example, in a scene in which Vernon and Pearl are talking outside at night and they realize that their son, Robbi (Logan Borsari), is eavesdropping, Vernon says he thinks it’s time to send Robbi to a boot camp. Mom and Dad chuckle about that one, but Robbi doesn’t find it amusing.
We are awarding our Dove Seal to the movie for ages 12+. We strongly urge parents to consult the content listing for language and other elements. For those who watch the film from beginning to end, they will see a changed family by the conclusion. Plus, the story has to do with a porthole into space, something a lot of viewers will find fascinating.