The Art of Racing in the Rain (Blu-ray) review

[David Vaughn]

Studio: Twentieth Century Fox
Release Date: November 5, 2019
Rating: PG-13
Film: 4/5

Plot
Based on the best-selling novel by Garth Stein, THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN is a heart-warming tale narrated by a witty and philosophical dog named Enzo (voiced by Kevin Costner). Through his unique insight into the human condition, Enzo helps his owners — race car driver Denny Swift (Milo Ventimiglia), his wife Eve (Amanda Seyfried) and daughter Zoe (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) — navigate life with a refreshing perspective on friendship, family and unconditional love.

My Thoughts
My wife bought me this book as a Christmas gift a few years ago and I really enjoyed it, but I never conceived that it would be made into a feature film. The critics didn’t like it very much with only 43% approving, but its Rottentomatoes audience score is 96%, which I definitely agree with the audience on this one. Is it perfect? No, but it will pull on your emotional heartstrings, especially if you have a dog as a pet (or any pet for that matter) and kids. I was particularly impressed with how the screenplay was able to capture the tone and tenor of the book.

The Blu-ray features a particularly sharp video encode with bright colors—especially Ferrari Red—inky blacks, and strong depth. The audio track is pedestrian in nature and rarely calls attention to itself outside of a few race scenes and the score.

Video 4.5/5

Audio 4/5 (DTS-HD MA 5.1)

Special Features:

• A Journey to Screen
• Directing the Art
• Enzo Cam
• Behind the Wheel
• The Dog Strays in the Picture
• Enso’s First Ride
• Audio Commentary
• Blu-ray+ Digital Copy

Conclusion
I don’t get the harsh criticism thrown at this film from the critics. Sure, it’s a tad melodramatic but it tells a great story of love, loss, and fulfilling one’s dreams. Just be sure to have some Tissues nearby when you watch it because if it doesn’t make you shed a tear, it’s time to go see a therapist—you’re emotionally stunted. Highly recommend.

Reference Review System:
 
 JVC DLA-RS2000 4K Ultra High Definition Front Projector
 (Calibrated with Portrait Displays CalMAN color calibration software & C6-HDR Meter from Portrait Displays)
 Stewart Filmscreen - Firehawk 88” 16x9 Fixed Screen
 Anthem AVM60 Audio/Video Processor
 ATI AT527NC Powering Bed ChannelsATI AT524NC Powering Atmos Speakers
 Panasonic DP-UB820 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player
 System Controller: URC MX-980
M&K S-150 THX Ultra (R-C-L Speakers)
M&K SS-150 x4 (Surround Speakers)
 Atlantic Technology IC6-OBA x 4 Overhead Speakers
 SVS PC-Ultra Cylinder Subwoofer
 HSU VTF-15H MK2 Subwoofer
 SVS SB-3000 Subwoofer
JL Audio Dominion D110 Subwoofer x 2 (configured as tandem mid bass modules)
Mini DSP controlling all subwoofers
 Audioquest and Monoprice - Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling
 PureAV PF60 Power Conditioner