It's refreshing to see stories celebrating different kinds of relationships—the ways people connect are evolving, and it’s good when those variations are acknowledged as valid, regardless of how unconventional they might seem. This animated film from writer-director Pablo Berger beautifully illustrates that with a deeply felt story. Set in a vibrant, multicultural version of 1980s New York (perhaps more accurately de…

The story unfolds in an animal-populated New York City, where a dog leads a rather isolated life. He’s fond of microwavable mac 'n cheese, but when he sees a couple across the way, it sparks a feeling of loneliness within him. A commercial on TV then prompts him to purchase a robotic companion. A large package arrives and what follows is an elaborate construction process that seems almost too complicated. Eventually,…