'Togo (2019)' finds its charm whenever it focuses on a very well-trained puppy portraying an intolerably untrainable one, and it finds its excitement whenever it focuses on the stylistic feats of sled-dog mastery required to navigate its focal Alaskan storm. Its action is an odd mix of real-life animal work and CGI set-pieces. However, its overall formalistic effect isn't entirely unsuccessful. It never comes close to feeling realistic but it evokes the effect it's going for. Some of it's actually suspenseful. The story isn't the most compelling, though it does have a good set-up and proper stakes. It just doesn't grip you, exactly. It's well-written but generally dry. A lot of it is just characters talking about how good its eponymous dog is. The relationship between the dog and his owner is tangible, though. The movie is entertaining enough throughout. Its overdone ending isn't the best note to go out on, but the experience is fairly enjoyable nevertheless. 6/10
Review of Togo
