If you have had enough of sugary pooch lovin' in films, Max will be a refreshing watch that attempts to break away from the syrupy vein of its beat. Though laden with cliches and lacking suspense, the film thrives because of its stirring moments. The titular character of the hunky Belgian Malinois is sketched with subtlety, never getting overtly melodramatic. The story with its share of drama and action, at its core it remains a heartwarming tale about overcoming loss.

Max's striking bond with Kyle's brother Justin is palpable. Justin, who is battling the overbearing pressure of matching up to his elder brother in terms of valour, stature and nobility, seeks solace in the bereaved canine. The warm intent of the story is never lost, which emerges as the film's stronghold.

The screenplay, however, is over plotted and runs down the script's mettle. Though the titular character is of a war dog, his vocational life is hardly ever the focus. It rather prefers jabbering about Justin's bootlegging activities which is needless for the plot. The climax takes off from an Enid Blyton story as three kids and their dog bring down an illegal arms nexus. The story was capable of so much more but the potential never sees the light of the theatres due to sketchy writing.

Fortunately, there is plenty to enjoy as well in the film. The complex friction between Justin and his father and the terse bond with his deceased elder brother Kyle, is beautifully translated on screen. Expect your share of heartbreaks too, especially in the scene where Max breaks down at Kyle's funeral. It's an absolutely heartwrenching moment. For clap-traps, the film offers the Belgian Malinois taking on two Rottweilers, who bite the dust when pitted against our skilled hero Max.

Tugging at the heartstrings, this movie has enough innocence to get you misty-eyed.

TRIVIA

1. The role of Taliban insurgent is played by a former Mariner.
2. Max was played by six different dogs in the film.
3. Max's breed is the same used in the operation that killed Laden.

GOOFS

1. Marine Corps don't use CORP but rather use CPL as their abbreviation.
2. The climax of the film was extremely clunky and looked gimmicky.