Review of The Trip (2011) by John D — 03 Sep 2012

Take note Hollywood, this is how you make a buddy movie.

The Trip takes a very basic theme, two friends sampling aspects of Northern English culture and cuisine, and spins the story around their relationships and worldly views. What makes the film, and you be forgiven for thinking what you're watching is genuinely happening, a success, is it depicts the everyday in a refreshingly candid light. Not only do you find yourself empathizing with the two leads, but also joining in with them; be it voicing your opinions on their conversations, or comparing your Michael Caine impression.

Great films have strong characters, and even though Coogan and Brydon are unknown to many they are instantly accessible, especially when conversing with one another. It is their camaraderie that Michael Winterbottom took note of and decided to build a film around. A decision that obviously paid off.

Low Budget, simple, and highly enjoyable.