The Year of the Dog - B-

In theaters. Rated PG-13, 97 minutes.

Dogs are loyal companions who will never disappoint you. Unfortunately for Peggy (Molly Shannon) the only true love or genuine connection she has in her life is her dog, Pencil, who dies within the first few minutes of the movie. The loss sends her into a tailspin to fill the void.

She tries dating her neighbor (John C. Reilly, a standout as Peggy's philistine nemesis) and a fellow pet lover (Peter Sarsgaard as Newt), both of which end up disappointing her and confirming her belief that animals are the best companions. Her love for animals ends up taking over her life, leading her to steal from her boss and adopt 15 dogs that live at her house.

As is typical with the hyped indie movie, this one has some good parts, but the overall package just isn't that great. The story falls apart in the second half of the movie and the final scene is just stupid. Molly Shannon gives a good performance as the lonely and introspective Peggy, and there are several funny moments with Newt and Peggy's brother and his family.