Unleashed

Greetings again from the darkness. Quirky is an overused word to describe far too many offbeat independent movies and unconventional actors. However, sometimes no better word exists, and that's exactly the situation with writer/director Finn Taylor's latest. A full moon cosmic event results in a collision between astronomy and astrology, and just like that … Emma's faithful pet dog and cat are transformed into hunky human boyfriend material.

Adding to the high level of quirk (in the role of Emma) is the extraordinarily multi-talented Kate Micucci ("Garfunkel and Oates") – an actress, comedian, writer, musician and artist. Plus, she is just so darn likable and nice! In fact, "nice" may be the only challenger to quirky in how best to describe this film. Sure it's cute and sweet and delightful, but above all, it's a nice movie whose nice characters will leave you with a nice feeling.

Steve Howey and Justin Chatwin (both from "Shameless") are spot on in their portrayals of Sam and Diego - the humanized dog and cat, respectively. Howey and his bleach blonde hair and boundless energy capture the devoted pooch, while Chatwin is downright hilarious with his feline tendencies that attract a public following. Given much leeway with the roles, we never lose sight of their original connection to love-lost Emma.

While the premise may offend some (though nothing else in the film will), the humor stems from this being a woman's fantasy. Her beloved pets, with full knowledge of her likes and dislikes, and with blind commitment, take on beautiful male human form without losing the lovable pet traits. What more could a women-done-wrong desire? It's also quite a scathing commentary on modern day dating, with the ne'er-do-well Luke (Josh Brener, "Silicon Valley") contrasted to the too-nice Carl (Sean Astin). Hana Mae Lee (Pitch Perfect) is Emma's spunky best bud and co-worker, and Illeana Douglas plays their boss.

There are some terrific Bay Area film locations utilized, and the music is so perfectly matched that we find ourselves saying "of course" as each new song pops up. Filmmaker Taylor certainly could have gone a bit harsher with the commentary and humor, but let's enjoy this quirk for what it is … a really nice time.

Anyone who has had dog or cat pets will love this movie. The actors capture the quirks perfectly. Ajax licking his paw and cleaning his hair, is Robin William's funny.

I happened to stumble upon this on Netflix and gave it a try since I love the cast...and animals ;) So cute and refreshing, no baggage, just light fun with amazing performances from Steve and Justin (Shameless guys). Kate sings a little, always a treat. Sean is typical Sean (RIP Bob), and then animal aspect/portrayal is not perfect but sweet. All over good streaming flick.

Throughout Unleashed, I was either laughing or had a smile on my face.My mind has a tendency to wander, but it rarely did as I watched this movie. I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a movie so much. All of the actors were superb. Do yourself a favor and see Unleashed. I rarely watch a movie more than once, but I know this will be a film I'll return to over the years!

It is fair to say than I love it. In fact, I adore it. For the simple motif than it is more than charming. It represents the best choice for the cat - dog owners and for the fans of romance in different form. The performances are great and the story - one of lovely crafted. Sure, it is an easy film but it has the rare gift to be, for its genre, a real gem. After so many dramas and pink romance, blockbusters and thrillers, horrors so far by originals and the army of remakes, "Unleashed" represents fresh air. For the levels of humor, for the great job of actors, for the flavor of old fashion comedy and for something who only the smile after its end could translate it. So, delightful.