Max, a “military working dog” returns from Afghanistan to vanquish evil while mending a broken home in this wholesome and welcome family drama.
When the eponymous canine’s handler (Robbie Amell), a Marine, is killed, the distraught animal is sent home to Texas to live with the Leatherneck’s parents (Lauren Graham and Thomas Haden Church) and his troubled younger brother (Josh Wiggins). With the encouragement of a sassy girl (Mia Xitlali), for whom he’s fallen, the rebellious teen overcomes his resistance and bonds with his new pet.
Together, they uncover a plot by an ex-Marine (Luke Kleintank) to peddle illegal weapons. Director and co-writer Boaz Yakin conveys his youthful main character’s evolution from zero to hero while underscoring the importance of telling the truth and respecting your parents.
Despite some mild action violence which may be too intense for the younger set, “Max” is a wholesome — and welcome — family drama. Director Boaz Yakin (“Remember the Titans”), who co-wrote the screenplay with former Marine Sheldon Lettich, nicely conveys Justin’s evolution from zero to hero, underscoring the importance of telling the truth and respecting your parents.
Yakin also wrangles some remarkably expressive performances from the half-dozen dogs who alternate in portraying the eponymous star.
The film contains scenes of combat and human peril as well as dog-fighting and a few mild oaths. The Catholic News Service classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.
