The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019), based on the novel of the same name by American author Garth Stein, is a drama directed by Simon Curtis. This film tells its story from the perspective of a dog, offering viewers a unique lens through which to explore universal themes such as life, death, loyalty, and perseverance. Through the narrator dog Enzo, the film provides profound insights into human nature while exploring the metaphorical connection between motorsports and family life.

Plot

The film centers on the life of professional race car driver Denny Swift, told through the eyes of his loyal dog, Enzo. Enzo witnesses both Denny’s rise in his racing career and the personal struggles he faces within his family. The illness of Denny’s wife, Eve, and the legal battles that follow are portrayed from Enzo’s perspective, capturing both emotional and philosophical dimensions. Enzo’s deepest desire is to be reborn as a human in his next life through reincarnation—a wish that symbolizes his fascination with human nature and his longing to understand it.

Cast

• Denny Swift (Milo Ventimiglia): Milo Ventimiglia portrays Denny Swift, a professional race car driver. Ventimiglia reflects the character's struggle to balance his career and personal life.
• Eve (Amanda Seyfried): Denny’s wife.
• Enzo (voiced by Kevin Costner): Enzo is Denny's dog and serves as the narrator of the story, offering a perspective on events throughout the film. Kevin Costner provides the voice of Enzo.
• Zoë Swift (Ryan Kiera Armstrong): Zoë is the daughter of Denny and Eve. Ryan Kiera Armstrong portrays Zoë during her childhood years.
• Kathy Baker (Trish) and Martin Donovan (Maxwell): Eve’s parents; they are involved in legal conflicts with Denny, particularly regarding Zoë’s custody.

Direction and Cinematography

Simon Curtis crafted the film with a balance of visual and emotional storytelling. The racing scenes are not only technically engaging, but also carry symbolic meaning. Scenes set in the rain particularly emphasize the unpredictability of life and the human desire for control. The choice of camera angles and lighting reflects the emotional states of the characters.

Themes and Criticisms

The film presents a narrative in which life is portrayed as a race, exploring themes such as patience, loss, loyalty, and rebirth. The perspective of Enzo provides a philosophical lens through which human-nature relationships, responses to death, and inner transformation are explored.

In terms of criticism, some viewers found the narrative style to be overly predictable and emotionally manipulative. Additionally, the film's linear structure and reliance on classic family drama elements were seen as lacking originality. However, the performances, particularly Kevin Costner’s narration, received generally positive reviews.

Book and Film Adaptation

The philosophical structure of the novel is presented in a simpler and more symbolic manner in the film. While the novel delves deeper into Enzo’s inner world, the film balances this aspect with voiceover narration and visual storytelling. Some subplots have been shortened, but the core narrative is maintained.

Commercial Success and Awards

The film, with an estimated budget of 18 million dollars, achieved a box office success of 33.7 million dollars. While it did not receive major awards, it garnered positive feedback within its targeted audience.