You Lucky Dog

You Lucky Dog is a 2010 television film directed by John Bradshaw, featuring Natasha Henstridge, Harry Hamlin, and Lawrence Dane in the leading roles. The movie, which is a blend of drama, family, and fantasy elements, offers heartwarming, wholesome entertainment.

The narrative centers around Lisa Rayborn (Natasha Henstridge), a successful business executive who is proficiently navigating her way through the labyrinth of corporate America. However, when she inherits a Dog Show Kennel from her estranged family, her life takes a sudden detour. A return to her roots and a purpose far from what she is used to awaits her when the hustle and bustle of city life is replaced with the snuffles and wagging tails of a variety of dogs. The tranquility and pastoral charm of rural living offer a refreshing perspective on life, making Lisa question her urban lifestyle preferences.

The arrival of Lisa Rayborn to the kennel doesn't merely stand out for its change of scene, but it opens up a new world teeming with quirky personalities; both the human and canine variety. The star of this canine world is Lucky, a dog whose name perfectly encapsulates his life’s story. Lucky, an abandoned and mischievous mixed-breed dog, is soon under Lisa’s close care.

As Lisa navigates this unfamiliar world, she crosses paths with the enigmatic Jim Hunter (Harry Hamlin). Jim is a local vet, an outdoors enthusiast, and a fellow dog-lover. Though a man of few words, Jim finds common ground with Lisa and offers her assistance as she adapts to her new surroundings. His knowledge and passion for animals become a vital pillar for Lisa, aiding her transition from corporate life to the owner of a prominent dog kennel.

Parallel to the evolution of Lisa’s relationship with Jim, the bond between Lisa and Lucky too blossoms. While initially seeming like a responsibility, Lucky quickly becomes a cherished part of Lisa's life, teaching her the essence of companionship, loyalty, and unconditional love.

On the flip side, there’s Lisa’s estranged brother, Jack Rayborn (Lawrence Dane), who is less than thrilled about her triumphant return to the family business. Jack, who's been overseeing the kennel in Lisa’s absence, struggles with feelings of resentment and fears of being overshadowed. The family drama that ensues adds a layer of complexity and tension to the film’s narrative, making it more than just a simple tale of a woman and her dog.

As the title implies, luck does play a significant role in this story. But it’s not all about lucky coincidences; it's also about creating your own luck, making the most of the situations you’re in, and finding the silver lining no matter how clouded the circumstances seem. In this case, it's about Lisa making the most of an unexpected inheritance, finding a new purpose and passion, and seizing the opportunity to repair strained family ties.

You Lucky Dog underlines the power of relationships – not just human-to-human relations but the bond between humans and animals. It’s about rediscovering one's roots, cultivating family ties, and, most importantly, learning to embrace and love the simple joys of life.

Despite its heartwarming premise, the movie doesn't shy away from posing challenging questions about priorities, loyalty, and the fundamental elements which define and impact our happiness. On the surface, You Lucky Dog might seem like a feel-good film about a woman and her dog, but under the fur and the wagging tail is a story about self-discovery, family, and the pursuit of happiness.

The performances of the three leads - Natasha Henstridge, Harry Hamlin, and Lawrence Dane - are heartfelt and offer the right balance of humor, drama, tension, and warmth to keep the audience invested in their story.

Visually, the film captures the serene charm of rural living and contrasts it with the busy, impersonal, and hyperactive life in the city, reinforcing the film's themes of simplicity and taking one back closer to nature.

Overall, You Lucky Dog is an enjoyable journey for viewers of all ages, and a reminder that sometimes the best adventures are those that bring us closer to our real selves and the earthly beauties around us.