Sometimes the most poignant stories about being human come from a narrator who isn’t human at all. The Art of Racing in the Rain, adapted from Garth Stein’s best-selling novel, tells its story through Enzo, a golden retriever who believes he is destined to return as a man. Framed by Enzo’s reflections on life, love, and mortality, the film unfolds as both a meditation on resilience and an intimate family drama.
With Milo Ventimiglia (This Is Us) leading the cast alongside Amanda Seyfried, the movie blends heartfelt performances with an emotional punch that has kept audiences talking since its release. More than just another “dog movie,” it explores ambition, grief, and unconditional loyalty in ways that continue to connect with viewers.
Here is everything you need to know about The Art of Racing in the Rain, from the plot and cast to reviews and streaming details. The trailer is at the bottom of the article.
All the key details about The Art of Racing in the Rain
- Title: The Art of Racing in the Rain
- Format: Film
- Length: 109 minutes
- Genre: Drama, Romance, Family
- Year of release: 2019
- Director: Simon Curtis
- Main cast: Milo Ventimiglia, Amanda Seyfried, Kevin Costner (voice of Enzo), Kathy Baker
- Produced by: 20th Century Fox, Original Film, Starbucks Entertainment
What happens in The Art of Racing in the Rain?
Denny Swift (Milo Ventimiglia) is a race car driver whose true endurance test comes not on the track but in his personal life. Alongside him is Enzo, a golden retriever voiced with humor and melancholy by Kevin Costner. Enzo narrates Denny’s triumphs and hardships with wisdom drawn from racing philosophy and a belief in reincarnation.
Through marriage to Eve (Amanda Seyfried), fatherhood, and devastating personal trials, Denny learns to navigate both literal and metaphorical storms. The film uses racing and the image of rain as a metaphor for resilience—reminding us that control in chaos is an art form in itself.
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Who’s in the cast of The Art of Racing in the Rain?
Milo Ventimiglia anchors the film with a performance of quiet strength, while Amanda Seyfried adds warmth and resolve as Eve. Kevin Costner’s voice as Enzo provides the film’s soul – gravelly, reflective, and often witty. Kathy Baker and Martin Donovan add emotional weight as in-laws whose conflicts with Denny raise the stakes.
Is The Art of Racing in the Rain based on a true story?
The story is fictional, adapted from Garth Stein’s 2008 novel. Stein, a former racing enthusiast, infused the book with motorsport wisdom and philosophical reflections, creating a tale that merges love for racing with meditations on mortality and meaning.
What are the reviews on The Art of Racing in the Rain?
Reviews are mixed, with some critics calling it sentimental while others highlight its sincerity and emotional pull. Kevin Costner’s narration is frequently praised, and audiences—especially dog lovers—embrace the movie as a cathartic, heartwarming experience. On Rotten Tomatoes, it’s often described as a tearjerker that rewards viewers willing to lean into its melodrama.
Where was The Art of Racing in the Rain filmed?
Filming took place in Vancouver, British Columbia, doubling for Seattle and surrounding areas. Race sequences were shot at Canadian circuits, lending authenticity to the motorsport backdrop.
The Art of Racing in the Rain: Behind the scenes and fun facts
- Garth Stein’s novel sold more than six million copies and was translated into dozens of languages.
- Actor and racer Patrick Dempsey was an executive producer, bringing motorsport authenticity to the project.
- Multiple trained dogs portrayed Enzo, with subtle CGI enhancements for expressive scenes.
- The film spurred renewed interest in racing philosophy as metaphor for resilience in life.
What’s The Art of Racing in the Rain like?
If you connected with films like Marley & Me or A Dog’s Purpose, you’ll find similar emotional territory here—though with more adult philosophical layers. It’s a family drama with a spiritual core, balancing heartache with hope.
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When is The Art of Racing in the Rain coming out on streaming?
Available now. The Art of Racing in the Rain is streaming on Disney+ in select regions and available for digital rental or purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV. Release date: August 9, 2019. Watch on Disney+.
Watch the trailer
In the meantime, here’s the trailer.
