Kevin Costner’s Unexpected Role in a Heartwarming Dog Tale Just Hit Netflix UK
When you think of Kevin Costner, iconic roles like Eliot Ness in The Untouchables or his many appearances in sweeping Westerns might come to mind. Known for playing grounded, everyman heroes, Costner’s gravitas has long been a staple of both big-screen dramas and recent streaming hits. But voice acting? That’s a different story. Despite a long and varied career, he’s only lent his voice to an animated character once — and the result is now streaming on Netflix UK.
The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019) is the film in question, and it offers a surprisingly tender take on the bond between man and dog — told entirely from the canine’s perspective. Costner voices Enzo, a soulful Golden Retriever who narrates the life of his owner, Denny (played by This Is Us star Milo Ventimiglia), an aspiring Formula One driver chasing his dreams on and off the racetrack.
Enzo isn’t your typical pet. He’s deeply connected to Denny and believes he’s destined to return in his next life as a human. Through Enzo’s eyes, we witness the full arc of Denny’s journey: the triumphs, the heartbreak, the romance with Eve (Amanda Seyfried), and the arrival of their daughter, Zoe. When tragedy strikes and Eve becomes seriously ill, Enzo becomes the quiet, unwavering heart of the family.
It’s an emotional ride — think Marley & Me meets Rush. Costner’s signature gravelly voice adds weight and warmth to Enzo’s inner thoughts, making an already moving story even more poignant. The result? A real tearjerker that, while met with lukewarm critical reviews, has earned a staggering 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. For animal lovers, it’s a must-watch. And if you’re someone who believes in fate, loyalty, or the power of dreams, expect to be moved — possibly to tears.
Earlier the same year, dog lovers were also treated to A Dog’s Way Home (2019), another heartwarming tale about a loyal pup separated from her owner. Bella, a German Shepherd mix voiced by Bryce Dallas Howard, embarks on a 400-mile journey home. With shades of Lassie and directed by Charles Martin Smith — who starred alongside Costner in The Untouchables — it set the stage for The Art of Racing in the Rain‘s emotional punch.
Of course, not all talking-dog movies tug at your heartstrings. Strays (2023) took the genre in the complete opposite direction, delivering an R-rated, irreverent comedy that gleefully subverts the “loyal companion” trope. Will Ferrell voices Reggie, an abandoned Border Terrier, who teams up with foul-mouthed Boston Terrier Bug (Jamie Foxx) and a ragtag group of dogs on a mission of revenge. Think of it as the anti-Racing in the Rain — raunchy, ridiculous, and definitely not for kids.
One thing’s for sure: Hollywood’s obsession with dogs isn’t going anywhere. From heart-melting dramas to offbeat comedies, canines continue to steal scenes and win hearts. That’s even reflected in Cannes’ annual Palme Dog award — a playful prize given to the best dog performance (live or animated) at the festival. Past winners include Uggie the Jack Russell, who became a global sensation in The Artist (2011), and English Bulldog Nellie, who earned the collar in Paterson (2015) for her hilariously grumpy performance opposite Adam Driver.
So whether you’re in the mood for cuddly companionship or comedy chaos, there’s a dog movie for you. But for something truly touching, The Art of Racing in the Rain stands out — not just for its storytelling, but for the rare chance to hear Kevin Costner in an unexpectedly tender role. You may want to keep the tissues nearby.
