Review of The Trip (2011) by Greg R — 16 Sep 2011

The Trip is a British comedy film that was originally edited for television. It was directed by Michael Winterbottom and stars Steve Coogan (Tropic Thunder, The Other Guys) and comedian Rob Brydon. The film tells the story of Steve who originally is signed up to go on a restaurant tour of North England with his girlfriend for a food magazine.

However, she unexpectedly cancels leaving Steve to invite Rob as a last resort. The picture starts off well enough as the two are seen joking with each other throughout quoting famous films and doing their best Michael Caine impersonations.

However, as the picture goes on we're confronted with Steve's inner demons (infidelity, social anxiety, drug addiction, depression). Rob often tries to cheer Steve up but it never works; Eventually it gets to the point where the two will often share an awkward silence together.

It's an interesting balance of being annoyed and having a good time with a friend. We've all been there you're having a blast with someone you like then after a few hours you realize you can't stand being around that person.

The film's highlights are based around the two doing rather dubious impressions of Michael Caine, Stephen Hawking, Al Pacino, and others that will leaving you laughing for a while. The Trip also has a dark side that I referenced early that might turn some people off who were looking for a good laugh for a couple of hours.

The film shot by Ben Smithard who throughout leaves with gorgeous images of the England countryside, it's quite remarkable because at times you'll think you're watching a documentary on nature.

Overall the film features a good amount of dry humor so if that isn't you're think you might want to look somewhere else for a laugh....