Review of A Walk in the Woods (2015) by Grant S — 13 Oct 2016
Author Bill Bryson (played by Robert Redford) is living the quiet life in New Hampshire with his wife Catherine (Emma Thompson) and family. He decides to hike the 3,500 km Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. Catherine insists he not go alone, so Bryson casts about for someone to accompany him. Though not approached, old friend Stephen Katz (Nick Nolte) volunteers. However, Katz is unfit and seems like he may be a liability in Bryson's endeavours. Nevertheless, the two of them set off on an adventure of a lifetime.
Though based on a true story, the plot of the movie seems flat and unoriginal. Shortly before this we had Wild, which was a much better examination of a mega-hike and why someone would do it. Here there's no personal demons to conquer, no having to prove yourself to anyone. Bryson and Katz are just hiking.
Then again, Wild was a drama and A Walk in the Woods is meant to be a comedy. However, it's not that funny. There is some good banter at times but there are no laugh-out-loud moments and the whole thing just feels flat.
On the plus side, there is some good scenery, but that is about it.
This review of A Walk in the Woods (2015) was written by Grant S on 13 Oct 2016.
A Walk in the Woods has generally received mixed reviews.
Was this review helpful?
