Are you looking for a good holiday film that the whole family can see? Look no further than “Marley& Me”. Based on John Grogan’s bestselling book that tells the story of his personal relationship with his loyal Labrador retriever Marley. The story begins when John (Owen Wilson) and Jennifer Grogan (Jennifer Aniston) are newlyweds looking to add an addition to their family, but aren’t quite ready for children. They decide to take on a puppy. A puppy named Marley. Jennifer leaves town for a weekend and John is stuck caring for the puppy on his own. He soon realizes a puppy is not as easy as expected. Between the chewing, accidents and uncontrollable crying he knows that this is going to be a challenge.

John and Jennifer enjoy adventure after adventure with their hyper and neurotic dog. John soon begins writing about his days with his companion. His writings soon become a very popular column in the local paper. Marley is well known by many locals due to John’s columns. Not soon after starting the columns the Grogan’s feel ready to take on the next challenge…children. After the first child they find a comfortable medium between work, animal and child. Barely a year later Jennifer discovers she is pregnant again and makes the decision to be a stay at home mom. With one income coming in John begins to write columns everyday in an effort to double his salary.

After baby number three arrives they move to the other side of the tracks. Living in a safer neighborhood and larger house gives John peace of mind. As happy as life is, John still feels as if he is missing out on more. No longer having the desire to be a columnist he turns in his work to Philadelphia local paper, where he gets a successful response. Soon the Grogan’s relocate to a new home where the family truly becomes closer and even enjoy a snowy day, which they had never experienced living on the West coast. After relocating we see that Marley is aging. We are taken on the realistic journey of Marley’s life with her loving owners.

Dog lovers everywhere can not miss this film. If you are not a dog lover, than I am guessing there is a good chance you will be after seeing this. Dogs are very similar to our own children. They love us unconditionally, they need discipline and they need there play time. “Marley & Me” tells the story of not only man’s best friend, but of a dog becoming a member of the family and sharing memories with all that will last a life time. Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston had amazing performances, some of the best work I have seen from both. This film will cause some tears, maybe even a river of them. Make sure to bring the Kleenex to this film and re-live some of the great Marley moments and think back to the ones you have had with your own beloved pet.