? A young chef, a stray dog, and a shelter owner walk into… well, each other — what could go wrong? Recently released on Netflix and promptly climbing its Top 10 list, Caramelo is a Brazilian production starring Rafael Vitti as Pedro, an aspiring chef working in a fine-dining restaurant as an aide. When Pedro one day feeds a stray dog, the caramel-colored canine takes it as an invitation to follow him across town and right into the restaurant’s kitchen — a recipe for disaster.

After the dog demolishes the kitchen, causing the head chef to quit in rage, Pedro somehow pulls through, crafting a dish that mesmerizes a high-profile reviewer, earning him a well-deserved promotion to head chef. Out of the kindness in his heart, Pedro decides to give the dog — whom he not-so-creatively named Caramelo — a home. Needless to say, Caramelo makes his life a living hell through a series of Marley & Me-esque disasters. However, the duo soon make do with their new co-living arrangement, but tragedy soon strikes, as it is wont to do.

As is the case with almost all movies with a furry friend as the protagonist, Caramelo is a movie that will have you weeping profusely — but not for the reasons you would expect, and we’ll keep it at that to avoid spoilers. The film places heavy emphasis on its characters, exploring several familial, platonic, and romantic dynamics, showcasing the essence of humanity when faced with incomprehensible circumstances. It is a family-friendly dog adventure movie, yes, but it’s also so much more. Loyalty, love, grief, and benevolence are all central themes, resulting in a small-screen cinematic work that will tug on your heart strings or die trying.

Grab a tissue pack — or two. The film’s plot isn’t cut and dry, and events will take a series of turns that all lead to one pivotal point. Caramelo indeed bears similarities to Marley & Me, A Dog’s Purpose, and other films of the genre, yet it also stands out for its refusal to follow the path you would expect. Tears may find their way down your cheeks, but this does not mean you’re in for a sad ending per se.

WHERE TO WATCH- You can stream Caramelo on Netflix. You can also find the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:07).

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