Movie Review: Best in Show

Best in Show

In the grand tradition of "This is Spinal Tap", "Best in Show" is a documentary-style ("mockumentary") movie that tells of the travels and travails of five very different dogs in the care of five wildly different owners as they prepare for and compete in the year's biggest dog show. We meet each dog and his or her owner(s) in the days preceding the show. The owners themselves narrate some of the film footage about their particular animal, and talk about themselves and their aspirations as they look straight into the camera lens. The cameras follow along on the subsequent days of travel as one owner heads out in his pick up truck and another pulls the pooch in her crate on an airport concourse. Finally, we're at the big show, where we're privy to the backstage goings-on even as we watch the show itself play out.

Despite the fact the movie never loses its utter seriousness - or perhaps in part because of that fact - you'll find yourself laughing out loud. Fred Willard in particular is a hoot in his role as a TV announcer covering the show with a partner. Some of his appallingly inappropriate banter is some of the funniest material I've neard in a long time. Michael McKeen - a "Spinal Tap" veteran - and Eugene Levy also have significant roles.

Family Suitability: There is some adult humor interspersed throughout the show, but it will probably be well over the heads of any little ones. Still, while very small children might get a kick out of seeing all of the pretty dogs, they're not going to be entertained at any length by this movie. Despite a lack of sex, violence, or very rough language, "Best in Show" is really best enjoyed by adults.