Review: Marley and Me blu-ray

Marley and Me is essentially a story about the trials and tribulations of marriage – and the unforseen events that shape our lives – based around the antics of a dog, Marley.

John Grogan (Owen Wilson) marries Jenny (Jennifer Aniston) and the two purchase a dog in the light-hearted hope that the pet will prepare them for having children, which they later plan to do.Marley is so named after the great reggae artist Bob Marley, of whom John is a big fan.

The new couple move to sunny Florida and both secure work as full time journalists; Jenny as a feature writer and John as a daily news reporter.

But unexpected events take place (we won’t spoil it) and Jenny is required to leave her job to look after the couple’s young children.

When John is called upon to write a column piece, his editor is surprised to find out how funny John’s writing is.

In fact, all of John’s columns are centred on the misdemeanours of the poorly behaved Marley, who causes significant grief to the Florida dog community.

No less than 22 labradors were used in the making of the film, tracking Marley’s entire life.

On the whole, the film is an interesting look at the dynamics of family life and how unexpected events can shape you as a person.

The Marley and Me bluray is currently available.