Marley & Me (DVD, 2009, Checkpoint; Sensormatic; Widescreen)

The previews for this movie make it seem like a comedy about an unruly dog. Although Marley IS badly behaved at times and the film has plenty of laughs, it will be better appreciated by adults than kids. Owen Wilson's character longs for a successful career, but winds up getting something better: a loving family, complete with all the joy, irritation, compromise & sorrow that entails. Though the ending will have you reaching for your kleenex, death too is a part of life. Marley & Me is an opportunity to talk to young children about the inevitability of death and the value of living your life surrounded by a loving family --- which, rather than acquiring wealth, is the true definition of success.