'The Dog Problem' is a quirky little indie film with all the right actors, inherent oddities and a catalytic mutt that looks a little like a miniature Chewbacca.

Solo (Giovanni Ribisi) is addicted to therapy. Have written a bad novel, which did rather well, he has counselled himself into bankruptcy. As a parting gift, his shrink (Don Cheadle) advises him to get a pet.

Accompanied by his player photographer buddy Casper (Scott Caan, also the writer/director) he heads to the local pet shop, where he picks out a dog which, for the majority of the film, he simply calls dog.

It quickly becomes apparent that Solo is not equipped to have a pet and his feelings towards the dog are ambiguous at best. But when he contemplates selling the dog to a dog-loving rich girl (Mena Suvari), he is struck by a sudden attachment to the dog. And when loan shark Benny (Kevin Corrigan) comes to collect his money and offers to take the dog instead, Solo refuses. Clearly in need of that therapy then.

As he tries to figure out his life, his dog and his need for therapy, Solo stumbles across the straight-talking stripper Lola (Lyn Collins) who may just be the answer to all of the above.

A somewhat unconventional choice, Ribisi is delightful as the leading man in this light-hearted and occasionally dark comedy and the ensemble of talented actors ensures that you don't become bored by what is essentially a very thin plot.