Max

There's a great tradition in Hollywood of both the war film and the dog film. Who can forget "Lassie" and her super-canine ability to save lives? But ever since the Vietnam War the public hasn't given much respect to these genres.

The family drama "Max" about a military dog who returns to the United States after serving in Afghanistan is a completely guilty pleasure. This movie allows audiences to turn off their jaded, critical brain, indulge in a "good guys vs. bad guys" plotline and imagine an escapist America full of heroes, patriotic ideals and the true love of a dog.

Justin (Josh Wiggins) is a slacker kid who enjoys video games, riding his bike and doesn't have much respect for his father Ray (Oscar nominee Thomas Haden Church). But he grows up a little the day that a dog with post-traumatic stress disorder enters his life.

The boy's brother Kyle (Robbie Amell) was mortally wounded on the frontlines of Afghanistan, and the Marine's precision-trained military dog Max can't seem to relax around anyone else but Justin.

When Kyle's army buddy Tyler (Luke Kleintank) ingratiates himself into Justin's family, the ex-Marine wants them to put Max down, and he tells Ray that Max turned on his son during maneuvers, leading to Kyle's death. But Justin discovers that Tyler is lying, because Max knows of the nefarious soldier's secret affairs.

Only with truth and courage can this boy and his dog take down a crime ring.

It's simple, family entertainment that can pull at your heartstrings, especially if you watch it at home with the dog that you love.

Home viewers will also appreciate two special features on this Blu-ray, a look at military-trained canines and a behind-the-scenes featurette that introduces the many dogs who played the character of Max.

"Max"
Blu-ray Combo Pack
$35.99
max-themovie.com