I don't know if it was a "fluke" or not (pun intended), but they really made a good and worthwhile movie here. Despite some familiar "kid-movie" trappings (actually, when you first hear the two dogs "talking" to each other you may be disappointed that yet another movie has used that gimmick, but at least the other dog is voiced by Samuel Jackson), this film isn't very accessible to kids; it's very unusual, rather grim and pretty much of a downer. Older viewers, though, should appreciate the consistently interesting story, the excellent cinematography and the remarkable "performances" by the dogs; their trainers really did a great job. (***)