Patrick

Y’alright. Let me bark at you about Patrick **(2018).

When humans cross the rainbow bridge, their stuff—houses, money, jewels, Granny’s secret brown gravy recipe—goes to their loved ones. That is what happens in Patrick, a charming British comedy about a woman who unexpectedly inherits a pampered and high-spirited pug.

She hasn’t the slightest clue about a dog’s needs. What’s worse, her building discriminates against non-humans with a strict no-pets policy, clearly written by a human who’s never enjoyed returning home to a wagging tail.

When Sarah first brings Patrick home to her apartment she gives him a lecture about the rules, adding: “One grunt, growl, or bark in the wrong place and we’ll both be in Richmond Park eating rabbit ragu. And I know that sounds nice, but it won’t be.”

Patrick the pug (played by multiple pug actors) has a muzzle that is cute only to humans and a certain mischievous-canine charm. And, in a surprise to absolutely no one, it turns out that Patrick has a flair for getting Sarah into tight spots.

If you expect surprising plot twists, then this is not the movie for you.

As the story scampers along, Patrick and Sarah learn to trust each other. With Patrick on the lead, Sarah’s life and self-confidence gets a lift. And she learns some classic canine wisdom along the way—proving once again that dogs make the best mates.

If you fancy a fun rom-com with plenty of doggie action, then this movie is for you.

I’m Gus, your canine critic and I say, Patrick’s entertaining antics make this movie one to fetch.

Thank you for visiting GusBarks!

May your nose be true, may your treats be plentiful, and may you catch the rabbit of your dreams.

And remember, dogs are people too.

— Gus