Bradley Cooper Has 'A Dog's Purpose'

Bradley Cooper has shown a penchant for surprises of late. Playing a talking raccoon in a Marvel movie? Sure. Produce and occasionally appear in a TV show based on "Limitless," why not? Voicing a dog in an inspirational dramedy? Uh, what?

Indeed, Cooper will be providing the soothing tones of the canine in "A Dog’s Purpose." Based on the best-seller by W. Bruce Cameron, directed by Lasse Halstrom, and starring Britt Robertson and Dennis Quaid, the story is about a dog who keeps being reincarnated, helping the people who come to possess him, while hanging onto to the hope of being reunited with this original owner and best friend. Oof. Here’s the book synopsis:

This is the remarkable story of one endearing dog’s search for his purpose over the course of several lives. More than just another charming dog story, A Dog’s Purpose touches on the universal quest for an answer to life’s most basic question: Why are we here?

Surprised to find himself reborn as a rambunctious golden-haired puppy after a tragically short life as a stray mutt, Bailey’s search for his new life’s meaning leads him into the loving arms of 8-year-old Ethan. During their countless adventures Bailey joyously discovers how to be a good dog.

But this life as a beloved family pet is not the end of Bailey’s journey. Reborn as a puppy yet again, Bailey wonders—will he ever find his purpose?

I’m not sure what Cooper finds meaty about this part and being the microphone for the inner thoughts of a plucky dog, but the project is now shooting, so we’ll find out soon enough. [THR]