Review of Scenic Route (2013) by Johnny T — 13 Dec 2013

While the narrative spins in place, Kyle Killen's script throws out one uninspired gambit after another to extend the film to feature length, eventually climaxing with dual endings, both contrived. Some movies have a bad ending. "Scenic Route," thanks to some overly tricky screenwriting, sort of has two - and they're particularly painful because they think they're so clever, and they're not. Sometimes indie pictures like this, with over-the-top acting and outrageous situations, are meant as a calling card for its creators - a chance to show their wares to others in the industry. So calling all producers, there is one tour-de-force performance in Scenic Route: the makeup team of Brian Kinney, Sara Robey and Maia Wagle. Admire their work, and bring earplugs. Mitchell and Carter never extend beyond the archetypes of Unhappy Family Man and Bitter Failed Artist. Nor do Duhamel and Fogler's inconsistent performances breathe life into their flat characters. Just because moviegoers begin to know these characters intimately doesn't mean they like them, or care whether they perish in the harsh conditions. An awkward, long-winded mash-up of therapy session, horror movie and survival tale with pretensions of psychological depth.

VERDICT: "Not So Hot" - [Negative Reaction] These films are truly terrible films. They are not the worst things ever made, but they are definitely awful and should not be seen by anyone. (Films that are rated 1.5 or 2 stars).