Dogs Lie (2011) User Reviews

An entertaining film with a twist

[Paula-v-ware · 8/10 · 8 February 2012]

A very entertaining film with an unexpected twist.

Having seen this you won't want to stay in a sleep clinic - it may keep you awake. It's an unusual setting but this adds to the intrigue

It is not what it seems and not what you would expect

The characters and their relationships are well developed at a good pace. Josh and Iqbal are utterly believable and keep you involved to the end.

The light humour adds to the viewing pleasure - I loved the telephone conversations between Iqbal and his mother.

It deserves the awards and accolades it has received so far.

Intrigue & Wit will keep you guessing to the end....

[Mockingbird212 · 8/10 · 14 March 2012]

It has been some time since I first saw this film, but it left me with distinct impressions.

I recollect my wishing the film would not end due to the central characters' (Josh & Iqbal) perfect casting, and strong performances in their abilities to intrigue, as well as captivate the viewer with layers of subtle, clever repartee.

It's a Must See and on my List of Recommendations for anyone who loves the suspense of watching a carefully paced chess game loaded with wit and intelligence.

Not surprised it's gaining so much recognition. Also on my List to see again..... but I don't want to spoil anything.... Just See It!

Harold and Kumar go to Deathtrap

[rooprect · 27 February 2015]

IMDb estimates the total budget for "Dogs Lie" was $170k which, in Hollywood terms, wouldn't cover the parking tab for most big studio productions. That said, if you're scared off by indie films on a budget then you can pass on this. But if you enjoy seeing low key productions and seeing how effectively filmmakers can tell a story with limited resources, then read on.

The story is really perfect for an indie flick because it's very minimal in nature. Adapted from a play, "Dogs Lie" revolves closely around the 2 main characters "Josh" and "Iqbal" and their quirky banter while working the late shift at a sleep clinic. No, there aren't any car chases or explosions or strippers (oh, wait, actually there are a couple of those), but instead the dialogue of the 2 leads is what engages us. Just don't expect a nail-biting, pulse-pounding thrill ride because that's not the goal of this movie. Instead I would compare it to the classic "Deathtrap" (another film adapted from a play) with its word-based approach to action. Just imagine instead of Michael Caine & Christopher Reeve you get something leaning closer to Harold & Kumar.

The plot: A murder happens early in the film, and Josh & Iqbal happen to be the alibi for one of the suspects who was at the sleep clinic the night of the murder. At first this is just a peripheral event for the two, but over the course of a few shifts they begin to discuss & get deeper into the mystery as they find out more details and divulge a few themselves. As other reviewers have mentioned, what keeps this film entertaining is the humor and natural banter between the 2 main characters. Great job by both actors, Frank Boyd (Josh) and Samrat Chakrabarti (Iqbal), whom I didn't really like at first but they soon had me feeling like one of the gang with their natural chatter.

Also for no special reason I have to mention something I found hilarious, whether it was deliberate or not. Notice whenever they're talking to someone on an intercom we can't hear the person on the other end, but they still carry on normal conversations over the speaker. Sort of a surreal touch... like in the cartoon Peanuts where we never really hear adults speaking. Or maybe it was just a sound goof. Either way I really liked it.

Keeps you guessing till the end!

[riat10708 · 2 March 2012]

Attended the ITN Film and New Media Festival in NY where Dogs Lie won a couple of awards.

Film was suspenseful and also humorous. Really liked the slightly goofy and totally trusting Iqbal and have watched some of his other films. Josh completely takes you in and fools you. Lots of twists...Good supporting actors - the beautiful, intriguing Lucia; the brutish Vlad; the efficient Detective with a romantic underside. There is also the character of Yuri played by the famous wrestler, Ken Anderson, and Iqbal's Mum (Gita Reddy)gives a realistic portrayal of the over-bearing, helicopter Mom.

Interesting choice of setting - a sleep clinic. Have always wondered what went on behind the scenes.

Don't want to spoil the plot so you'll have to see it!