Review of The Truth About Cats & Dogs

The Truth About Cats and Dogs (1996): Dir: Michael Lehmann / Cast: Janeane Garofalo, Uma Thurman, Ben Chaplin, Jamie Foxx, James McCaffrey: Amusing romantic comedy about gender differences. Janeane Garofalo plays a radio personality who gives advice about pet care. She is insecure but when a male caller is given successful advice he asks her to lunch. Afraid of being brushed off she has the fetching Uma Thurman pose as her. Charming setup follows predictable formula made bearable through its leads. Director Michael Lehmann is given fine chemistry between Garofalo and Thurman who play off the antics effectively. Garofalo brings a fresh energy with her job and self esteem. Thurman plays someone who is dealing with a bad relationship but hopes to succeed in music. We know the outcome but they at least entertain with their back and forth role reversal with regards to voice. Ben Chaplin as the male caller is a predictable prop. He is basically there to be lied too then forgive and forget so that this can be wrapped up without glitches. Jamie Foxx is even less broad and basically renders to the formula. Had the film placed more emphasis on the radio advice it might have been more interesting but as it is it should appeal to fans of chick flicks. It regards genders and personalities and exploits other truths about cats and dogs…and the odd turtle too. Score: 7 / 10