67 reviews
- Robert_duder
- Aug 8, 2009
- Permalink
I think that director Michael McGowan really loves his main character, Ben. Ben is beautifully played by Joshua Jackson, a part which requires him to react to a lot of things. Ben seems quiet about most things, but not necessarily content. When told that he has cancer and only a short time to live, he's suddenly a man on the cusp of something. It takes only a silly message under the rim of a Tim Horton's coffee cup - "Go west" - to set him in motion. For the first time in his life, he doesn't just fall back into something familiar and comfortable - he takes action. He rejects, at least for the time being, the virtual death of invasive cancer treatment, and goes on a quest for the life he's never really experienced. And when he runs out of "west", as he's afraid he'll do, he goes even further. The road trip in this movie is the road trip, ever further west, to a destination of the spirit. To others, it seems as if he's running away. But he's not. He's running toward something. When his girlfriend and family try to reel him in to safety, to "us", he resists. In a moment I silently cheered he cries out, in frustration, to his girlfriend: "It's not about us! It's about ME!" That may sound selfish, but it's not. It simply means that there are places where other people cannot go. One thing I liked about this film is its adult take on its subject matter. Although frequently funny, it is also contemplative and suggests that, without being ostentatiously heroic, our actions can inspire others. While I was watching the film I was thinking that if it was about only this and nothing else I would have been satisfied. But a film about a man who doesn't stop while it's still safe - but who goes all the way. That appeals to me on a personal level.
- rpvanderlinden
- Jan 11, 2011
- Permalink
A well filmed and decently thought out little picture. No, it did not have a lot of the bells and whistles and geegaws of a lot of bigger productions and they could have done a better job with the whole "This Is Canada" thing, but what the hell, did anyone stick around to see the production company and studio information at the end of the end credits? This was not a big-budget Hollywood picture and it did quite well, in my opinion, in spite of all that. I spent a summer in White River and I have a picture somewhere of myself in front of that sign, and remember a good many of the places in the film from two cross country trips when I was a kid. As for all the commentary about the silliness an contrite-ness of Ben's actions throughout the film, we should remember that this is a man who has been given the worst case scenario- terminal illness. Who among us would react rationally? What would we do if we were told we had one week, one month, one year to live? Ben himself gave us his reasons in a nutshell he was, in his words, "over prepared, over insured" what the hell would I do in that exact same situation? Probably exactly what he did, although I wouldn't try to tackle the Rockies on a motorcycle. Maybe a real nice convertible!
- hbradshaw1
- Mar 12, 2009
- Permalink
- ametaphysicalshark
- Mar 25, 2009
- Permalink
If you're looking for high drama, this one ain't it. If you're looking for action or violence, ditto. If you want a little something to make you think about what's important in your life, hit play.
When Ben is told he doesn't have long to live, he re-evaluates his life and finds it lacking. His response is to hit the open road by himself. His fiancé calls him selfish which is understandable. But it's something he needs to do.
I understand. I was diagnosed with a blood cancer several years ago. Mine is responding well to treatment, but I still look at life and wonder how to better use the time I have.
The scenery of Canada is gorgeous. I recognized Toronto even though I've been there only once. I'm not sure something like this could have been made in America. We tend to want fast, loud, over the top. Even lots of our indie films are like that. The quiet and slow pace gives the you time to make you want to see Canada, time to reflect on what's going on with Ben, time to hope he finds what he needs to.
When Ben is told he doesn't have long to live, he re-evaluates his life and finds it lacking. His response is to hit the open road by himself. His fiancé calls him selfish which is understandable. But it's something he needs to do.
I understand. I was diagnosed with a blood cancer several years ago. Mine is responding well to treatment, but I still look at life and wonder how to better use the time I have.
The scenery of Canada is gorgeous. I recognized Toronto even though I've been there only once. I'm not sure something like this could have been made in America. We tend to want fast, loud, over the top. Even lots of our indie films are like that. The quiet and slow pace gives the you time to make you want to see Canada, time to reflect on what's going on with Ben, time to hope he finds what he needs to.
Ben Tyler (Joshua Jackson) has stage-4 cancer and is given 10% chance to live. At most, he has a couple of years left. First thing that occurs to him is that he has an excuse to cancel his wedding to Samantha (Liane Balaban). He decides to buy an old motorcycle despite the disapproval of Samantha. When he rolls up the rim of his Tim Horton cup, it says "Go West Young Man". So he goes west on his bike for a road trip before returning for treatment and eventually his wedding.
I don't particularly like the Campbell Scott narration. I don't mind him as an actor, but his voice by itself is grinding. This is a charming little Canadian movie by Michael McGowan. It does need a bit more quirky to raise the interest. This movie is chalk full of Canadiana. However that is not enough to make this a great movie. It just needs more than what it is... which is a gentle little Canadian travelogue mixed with an emotionally simple story.
I don't particularly like the Campbell Scott narration. I don't mind him as an actor, but his voice by itself is grinding. This is a charming little Canadian movie by Michael McGowan. It does need a bit more quirky to raise the interest. This movie is chalk full of Canadiana. However that is not enough to make this a great movie. It just needs more than what it is... which is a gentle little Canadian travelogue mixed with an emotionally simple story.
- SnoopyStyle
- Apr 2, 2014
- Permalink
A beautiful film of self-discovery through a journey throughout Canada. The only problem was the weird narration which is for the most part supposed to be humorous but just kills every moment the film had. Just remove the narration part and we'll get a great film out of this.
- Jithindurden
- Apr 19, 2018
- Permalink
I thought I'd post a comment on this as most of those commenting appear to be Canadian, and so I thought an alternative viewpoint may be useful.
I first encountered this movie as a trailer somewhere - I can't recall where/when, maybe a flight or similar. I remember thinking "Josh Jackson, haven't seen him in a while" (I hadn't seen any Fringe at that time) and "Lots of nice footage of Canada". And then promptly forgetting about it. A couple of months ago I got the opportunity to finally watch One Week, and I was overwhelmed. The movie has a very simple premise, and an equally simple theme, yet the direction, cinematography, script, acting, and soundtrack all conspire to convey an impressive depth.
The story itself I found powerful, and was drawn along. To be fair, parts of it did have a certain relevance to me, but I think that anyone willing to try to fully emote with the Ben character cannot help but be touched. Josh Jackson gives an excellent performance, producing a believable and likable character with whom you cannot help but empathise.
Initially I was put off by the strange narration, however over time it grew more important in telling the story of Ben Tyler and the characters he meets, and by the end had flourished into a character all of it's own. Furthermore, the narration as well as other characters insert a certain black comedy, largely stopping the storyline from getting boring.
Not being Canadian, I undoubtedly missed many of the 'in' jokes and references; I don't think that this adversely affected my enjoyment one whit.
A significant theme of the movie was that the world (and especially Canada) is a beautiful place, and the direction and cinematography capture this exceptionally. I haven't seen any movies recently which have created as visceral a reaction in myself - I freely admit that I was in tears at times.
Overall, I highly recommend One Week. Try to watch it when you're feeling a little melancholic or down, and with an open mind just to absorb the story and the scenery, and I'll be very surprised if you don't also enjoy it immensely.
I first encountered this movie as a trailer somewhere - I can't recall where/when, maybe a flight or similar. I remember thinking "Josh Jackson, haven't seen him in a while" (I hadn't seen any Fringe at that time) and "Lots of nice footage of Canada". And then promptly forgetting about it. A couple of months ago I got the opportunity to finally watch One Week, and I was overwhelmed. The movie has a very simple premise, and an equally simple theme, yet the direction, cinematography, script, acting, and soundtrack all conspire to convey an impressive depth.
The story itself I found powerful, and was drawn along. To be fair, parts of it did have a certain relevance to me, but I think that anyone willing to try to fully emote with the Ben character cannot help but be touched. Josh Jackson gives an excellent performance, producing a believable and likable character with whom you cannot help but empathise.
Initially I was put off by the strange narration, however over time it grew more important in telling the story of Ben Tyler and the characters he meets, and by the end had flourished into a character all of it's own. Furthermore, the narration as well as other characters insert a certain black comedy, largely stopping the storyline from getting boring.
Not being Canadian, I undoubtedly missed many of the 'in' jokes and references; I don't think that this adversely affected my enjoyment one whit.
A significant theme of the movie was that the world (and especially Canada) is a beautiful place, and the direction and cinematography capture this exceptionally. I haven't seen any movies recently which have created as visceral a reaction in myself - I freely admit that I was in tears at times.
Overall, I highly recommend One Week. Try to watch it when you're feeling a little melancholic or down, and with an open mind just to absorb the story and the scenery, and I'll be very surprised if you don't also enjoy it immensely.
- kingtutthefirst
- Nov 2, 2009
- Permalink
This is a rather slow, but important story about the big issues in life, all against the backdrop of scenic, rural landscapes; photo is truly amazing. Ben (Joshua Jackson) is a young teacher with an upcoming wedding. His girlfriend, and wife to be, hates motorcycles; they are too dangerous. In the opening scene, Ben is told by his doctor he has incurable cancer. What is there to do? Shall he cancel the wedding? Should he quit his job? Is there a future? The first thing he does, is to buy motorcycle. Then he sets out on a journey westwards, without timetable or defined destination. It turns out to be an inner journey, in open air and without proper protection, except for the helmet. It also makes one of the best road movies I have ever seen. Ben asks himself: What should a man experience, if there's only one day, one week, or perhaps a year left of life? The film felt too long after 30 minutes. After 60 minutes I wanted it to never end, just like Ben's journey into the unknown west.
- olle-hogrell
- Mar 29, 2019
- Permalink
This is a very Canadian movie, not only in the use of the gorgeous cross-country scenery that provides both a backdrop and a reflective commentary on the main character's personal search but also because of it is patently outside the realm of the "regular" Hollywood (i.e. American) fare. This is not to suggest that only Canucks can enjoy or appreciate this wonderful, warm-hearted, evocative, simple story because the plot line and embedded themes are universal and timeless.
There is a leisurely quality to this narrative and a kind of inevitability to the whole story that makes it poignant yet full of strength at the same time. The voice-over done by a sonorously voiced Campbell Scott works so well that far from being intrusive as most add-ons are, it (he) becomes a character in his (its) own right.
This is one of those "festival sleepers" that will never have wide distribution but which will delight and uplift any who see it.
There is a leisurely quality to this narrative and a kind of inevitability to the whole story that makes it poignant yet full of strength at the same time. The voice-over done by a sonorously voiced Campbell Scott works so well that far from being intrusive as most add-ons are, it (he) becomes a character in his (its) own right.
This is one of those "festival sleepers" that will never have wide distribution but which will delight and uplift any who see it.
This is the first time I watched this kind of movie. The kind that talks about people dying and how they deal with it.
The thing I like about this movie is that One Week did not try to tell you what exactly it is to be a dying person. It is just a trip. No hardselling of life lectures. And no particular life changing moment happened, which is good. In my view all those events during this trip of Ben's are all possible. So it really gives me a feeling that how a trip to search for something you don't even know would be like.
The mood of this movie is alright. It isn't that heavy. So do try this on if you were reluctant to this type of movies before.
The thing I like about this movie is that One Week did not try to tell you what exactly it is to be a dying person. It is just a trip. No hardselling of life lectures. And no particular life changing moment happened, which is good. In my view all those events during this trip of Ben's are all possible. So it really gives me a feeling that how a trip to search for something you don't even know would be like.
The mood of this movie is alright. It isn't that heavy. So do try this on if you were reluctant to this type of movies before.
- yeung-benny
- Jul 24, 2010
- Permalink
One Week is the movie that I've been waiting for my whole life.
Michael McGowan has created a beautiful piece of Canadian art. The style is very reminiscent of great artists like Bruce McDonald and Don McKellar. This film certainly pulled at my heart strings having been to most of the places in this film. As well, Joshua Jackson's performance was stellar.
I feel so lucky that my wife and I had the pleasure of viewing this film on opening night which received quite a reception and was topped off with a standing ovation. I've never clapped at a movie before.
Sincerely, Christopher Landry
Michael McGowan has created a beautiful piece of Canadian art. The style is very reminiscent of great artists like Bruce McDonald and Don McKellar. This film certainly pulled at my heart strings having been to most of the places in this film. As well, Joshua Jackson's performance was stellar.
I feel so lucky that my wife and I had the pleasure of viewing this film on opening night which received quite a reception and was topped off with a standing ovation. I've never clapped at a movie before.
Sincerely, Christopher Landry
- clandry4-1
- Mar 6, 2009
- Permalink
It hasn't been too long since the release of this Canadian movie, written and directed by Michael McGowan and starring Joshua Jackson. Its wide theatrical release in Canada was apparently early last year, after film festival screenings in 2008, but I didn't see it on the big screen, nor did I even hear anything about it during its theatrical run, and I think it was just a few months ago when I started watching it on DVD. I watched the first 45 minutes or so and then stopped, not sure what I thought of it, but that didn't mean I was never going to watch the whole movie. Even though it took me a while to get around to doing so, I've finally watched it all. I was definitely not as impressed with "One Week" as many others have been, but I can't say I didn't like it at all.
Ben Tyler is a Toronto elementary school teacher who is diagnosed with a severe form of cancer. His doctor tells him that it is now in the fourth and final stage, and that he only has a ten percent chance of surviving. If none of the treatments work, Ben will only live a couple more years at maximum! After this diagnosis, he waits until after a big family gathering to tell his fiancée, Samantha Pierce, the bad news. She thinks he should immediately go into treatment, but knowing how slim his chances of survival already are, and how unpleasant the treatment will likely be, he wants to take a vacation first. He leaves Toronto, but it isn't long before he decides to make his way back for treatment. He changes his mind when he meets two Newfoundlanders who are on a bike ride across Canada. Instead of going back home, Ben decides to travel out west on his recently purchased motorcycle. On his trip, as he meets various people and sees various Canadian landmarks, he gradually learns life lessons.
When I first watched some of this film, I remember Campbell Scott's narration kind of put me off. When I watched the entire film months later, his narration wasn't as bad as I had remembered, but it's still deeply flawed, especially at times when he seems to think he's funny, such as the part where he talks about Samantha's hips, and the " all night long" segment. However, the narration isn't always bad, and is sometimes clever and deep. Some parts could have used some rethinking, such as Ben's marriage proposal to Samantha and a woman Ben meets in the prairies finding the man of her dreams after Ben meets her, but fortunately, there aren't too many other scenes like that. There are good dramatic moments and dialogue, the protagonist's experiences and the people he meets on his trip can be interesting, and there's some great scenery in the film from different parts of Canada, including western mountain scenery. To top it off, it's also a film that could make you think about life.
Back in the summer of 2000, I went on a road trip from my home in Southern Ontario to Vancouver Island. There's a lot in this film that reminded me of that trip and what I saw along the way, with the Terry Fox Monument, the Wawa goose sculpture, the prairie land, Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta, and finally the mountainous terrain of the west. There's certainly a lot of Canadian symbolism in this movie, not only with the landmarks and such, but also with a soundtrack featuring songs from various artists in the country. Also, Gordon Downie (lead vocalist of The Tragically Hip), Joel Plaskett, and Emm Gryner are all part of the Canadian music scene, and they have parts in this film. I'm sure many viewers in this country could appreciate "One Week", but that doesn't mean it's for Canadians only. For anyone who wants to see a fairly low-key, realistic, philosophical, and sometimes emotional drama with at least some mild humour, this COULD be a film you want to watch.
Ben Tyler is a Toronto elementary school teacher who is diagnosed with a severe form of cancer. His doctor tells him that it is now in the fourth and final stage, and that he only has a ten percent chance of surviving. If none of the treatments work, Ben will only live a couple more years at maximum! After this diagnosis, he waits until after a big family gathering to tell his fiancée, Samantha Pierce, the bad news. She thinks he should immediately go into treatment, but knowing how slim his chances of survival already are, and how unpleasant the treatment will likely be, he wants to take a vacation first. He leaves Toronto, but it isn't long before he decides to make his way back for treatment. He changes his mind when he meets two Newfoundlanders who are on a bike ride across Canada. Instead of going back home, Ben decides to travel out west on his recently purchased motorcycle. On his trip, as he meets various people and sees various Canadian landmarks, he gradually learns life lessons.
When I first watched some of this film, I remember Campbell Scott's narration kind of put me off. When I watched the entire film months later, his narration wasn't as bad as I had remembered, but it's still deeply flawed, especially at times when he seems to think he's funny, such as the part where he talks about Samantha's hips, and the " all night long" segment. However, the narration isn't always bad, and is sometimes clever and deep. Some parts could have used some rethinking, such as Ben's marriage proposal to Samantha and a woman Ben meets in the prairies finding the man of her dreams after Ben meets her, but fortunately, there aren't too many other scenes like that. There are good dramatic moments and dialogue, the protagonist's experiences and the people he meets on his trip can be interesting, and there's some great scenery in the film from different parts of Canada, including western mountain scenery. To top it off, it's also a film that could make you think about life.
Back in the summer of 2000, I went on a road trip from my home in Southern Ontario to Vancouver Island. There's a lot in this film that reminded me of that trip and what I saw along the way, with the Terry Fox Monument, the Wawa goose sculpture, the prairie land, Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta, and finally the mountainous terrain of the west. There's certainly a lot of Canadian symbolism in this movie, not only with the landmarks and such, but also with a soundtrack featuring songs from various artists in the country. Also, Gordon Downie (lead vocalist of The Tragically Hip), Joel Plaskett, and Emm Gryner are all part of the Canadian music scene, and they have parts in this film. I'm sure many viewers in this country could appreciate "One Week", but that doesn't mean it's for Canadians only. For anyone who wants to see a fairly low-key, realistic, philosophical, and sometimes emotional drama with at least some mild humour, this COULD be a film you want to watch.
- Beta_Gallinger
- Mar 6, 2010
- Permalink
- sharkovski
- Mar 27, 2016
- Permalink
This is a quintessential Canadian flick. It is truly breathtaking in its capture of a huge, inscrutable country. The acting and direction are austere and understated. The characters are underscored and very real. The story is muted and unpretentious. But altogether it works some kind of magic.
But this a Canadian film. With that comes the weepy, folky, trite music that underscores the film. Canada has a history of producing some of the saddest-eyed, wimpy singer-songwriters of all time. This film manages to cram the sobbiest, sad-sack folksters of all time into almost every frame. (It's no wonder most of Canada's rockers move away.) You'd have thought an uplifting tale of self-discovery would warrant equally uplifting music to buoy the tale, but no. It's just too Canadian.
If you can ignore the crappy music, this movie will move you.
But this a Canadian film. With that comes the weepy, folky, trite music that underscores the film. Canada has a history of producing some of the saddest-eyed, wimpy singer-songwriters of all time. This film manages to cram the sobbiest, sad-sack folksters of all time into almost every frame. (It's no wonder most of Canada's rockers move away.) You'd have thought an uplifting tale of self-discovery would warrant equally uplifting music to buoy the tale, but no. It's just too Canadian.
If you can ignore the crappy music, this movie will move you.
- rgcustomer
- Jan 3, 2010
- Permalink
what can i say? the film was too dark for my taste, I think you need to be at the right frame of my mind to enjoy all deep emotions and philosophy behind. for most of us living this stressful life, I doubt there will be much good time to watch such a movie, no wonder why financially it flopped grossing less than half a million form the $2m budget. the film itself, was a well done movie, great scenery combined with great acting from all especially Joshua Jackson who I think was the finest actor from the cast of "Dawson's Creek".. I love the ending of the movie, it felt just perfect. my only advice for people wanting to watch it, if you are stressed and unhappy, please save it for another time.
- shwan-348-526669
- Apr 28, 2014
- Permalink
This is what I call a real gem. I have just finished watching this movie, and I'm still thinking so deeply about it. I'm a travel fanatic, what would I do if I were to find out what Ben finds out about his health and destiny? Probably just the same.
It's impossible not to think about "Into the wild" when watching this movie and make a comparison. Both film are great, in different ways though, this one is probably more into introspection, the story is more "pruned" when compared to the American movie, the characters met by the main man are different, calmer, probably less American.
I loved everything about this film: the landscapes, the message, the characters (Sam is a good and kind hearted girl which deserves better in her life, the families are described as warm and loving), the literary quotations, the music, everything.
A gem really not to be missed. And Canada, wait for me, I'll be travelling there some time in the future!
It's impossible not to think about "Into the wild" when watching this movie and make a comparison. Both film are great, in different ways though, this one is probably more into introspection, the story is more "pruned" when compared to the American movie, the characters met by the main man are different, calmer, probably less American.
I loved everything about this film: the landscapes, the message, the characters (Sam is a good and kind hearted girl which deserves better in her life, the families are described as warm and loving), the literary quotations, the music, everything.
A gem really not to be missed. And Canada, wait for me, I'll be travelling there some time in the future!
- arsenico71
- May 16, 2011
- Permalink
- Jerominator
- Apr 9, 2013
- Permalink
In my opinion, One Week is one of the best Canadian films to date. I enjoyed it even more than Men with Brooms (which is saying a lot).
I loved taking the journey with Ben. The narrator adds a bit more depth to the plot, as we find how Ben touches various lives along the way. The beautiful scenery (which as a Canadian I take for granted) is visually stunning.
Ben's story in itself is both sad and heart-warming. For those weary of a sad ending, don't be - You will leave the theatre happy and inspired.
I will gladly recommend this movie to all my fellow Canucks and anyone else in the world.
I loved taking the journey with Ben. The narrator adds a bit more depth to the plot, as we find how Ben touches various lives along the way. The beautiful scenery (which as a Canadian I take for granted) is visually stunning.
Ben's story in itself is both sad and heart-warming. For those weary of a sad ending, don't be - You will leave the theatre happy and inspired.
I will gladly recommend this movie to all my fellow Canucks and anyone else in the world.
- Tiedyedaisy
- Mar 7, 2009
- Permalink
Undergoing some girl trouble, Joshua Jackson hops on his bike for a cross country trip through Canada. A friend once told me that this is a trip that everyone should do once in their life, to make you realize how big the world actually is. This low budget, 90 minute, comedy drama fails to convey such a feeling of grandeur. It not actually a bad movie, just a bland one.
It is bland not just narratively but visually. The sky is always cloudy, and the sights are relatively mundane; sometimes even tacky. The camera is turned less towards scenery and more toward the kind giant beaver statues and wax tomem poles next to a road side diner. Jackson gives a one note performance with no motivation. Liane Balaban, as the humble abandoned girlfriend does a better job earning empathy. She seems far more lost that he does. The few emotional moments in the film feel authentic, but the odds attempts at humour fall flat.
Jackson reaches the pacific ocean that the end of his journey, and gets to Kayak in the brief company of a whale. Moments like this might have made the trip worthwhile if there were more of them. Instead the overall experience is too mellow and unremarkable.
It is bland not just narratively but visually. The sky is always cloudy, and the sights are relatively mundane; sometimes even tacky. The camera is turned less towards scenery and more toward the kind giant beaver statues and wax tomem poles next to a road side diner. Jackson gives a one note performance with no motivation. Liane Balaban, as the humble abandoned girlfriend does a better job earning empathy. She seems far more lost that he does. The few emotional moments in the film feel authentic, but the odds attempts at humour fall flat.
Jackson reaches the pacific ocean that the end of his journey, and gets to Kayak in the brief company of a whale. Moments like this might have made the trip worthwhile if there were more of them. Instead the overall experience is too mellow and unremarkable.
I had the privilege of being in the audience for the premiere screening of One Week last night in Toronto. As with many Canadian films, the lack of an appreciative audience was evident by many empty seats in Roy Thompson Hall. However, for those of us who were in attendance, we were treated to an incredibly funny (in a tragic way typical of many Canadian films) and touching film. Joshua Jackson (notably absent from the premiere), showed a great range and presented a complex, well-developed character. The scenery was beautiful and there were many Canadian touches to the film - the audience in particular seemed to enjoy the references to Tim Horton's and Canadian Tire. However, the story has a universal theme and will hopefully go on to be enjoyed by a wider audience from around the world.
- jen_2003_14
- Sep 8, 2008
- Permalink
At a special screening in Toronto, director Mike McGowan claimed that this movie was meant, at least in part, to be "a love poem to Canada." It's a noble idea, and one which has not received that much treatment in film. Certainly the trailer promised everything one could want in a film about this great country; majestic landscapes, a killer soundtrack, giant tacky roadside attractions, Gord Downie, Joel Plaskett, even the Stanley Cup! So it's truly a shame that One Week more or less fails to achieve coherence as a film.
The main problem with this film the weak script. McGowan can't seem to decide whether he's making a lighthearted, fun movie about a romp across Canada or a serious drama about how people react to news of a terminal illness. In the end, he achieves neither, and we're left wondering what the point was. Moreover, several key episodes seem to drop out of nowhere, requiring a little too much suspension of disbelief on the part of the audience.
I also had a great deal of difficulty sympathizing with the characters. The protagonist, dissatisfied with the life he has built for himself, heads out on a journey of discovery, but he doesn't seem to know exactly what he wants to find, and we're never really sure if he's found it. He's rebellious enough to treat those that love him with disdain, but not so much so that he ever seems to fully "embrace randomness" as he claims to want to do. Joshua Jackson spends almost the entire movie wearing the exact same expression of tepid annoyance, and while the ever-present narrator does his best to explain what's going on inside Ben's head, his actions don't seem to match.
Even the trip itself is flawed, moving as it does from Toronto to Tofino and ignoring eastern Canada completely. Perhaps McGowan felt that the movie's credibility was stretched thin enough as it was, but he couldn't resist throwing in a couple of stereotypical Newfoundlanders and a Quebecois folk song to cover his bases. Somehow, I suspect that viewers in St. John's, Montreal, and Halifax will not take the bait.
Canada is a country composed of many vibrant and unique communities separated by vast empty expanses. However, we share a common narrative that holds us together as a country. This common narrative is exactly what this movie is missing, and why, despite some enjoyable moments, it falls apart in the end.
The main problem with this film the weak script. McGowan can't seem to decide whether he's making a lighthearted, fun movie about a romp across Canada or a serious drama about how people react to news of a terminal illness. In the end, he achieves neither, and we're left wondering what the point was. Moreover, several key episodes seem to drop out of nowhere, requiring a little too much suspension of disbelief on the part of the audience.
I also had a great deal of difficulty sympathizing with the characters. The protagonist, dissatisfied with the life he has built for himself, heads out on a journey of discovery, but he doesn't seem to know exactly what he wants to find, and we're never really sure if he's found it. He's rebellious enough to treat those that love him with disdain, but not so much so that he ever seems to fully "embrace randomness" as he claims to want to do. Joshua Jackson spends almost the entire movie wearing the exact same expression of tepid annoyance, and while the ever-present narrator does his best to explain what's going on inside Ben's head, his actions don't seem to match.
Even the trip itself is flawed, moving as it does from Toronto to Tofino and ignoring eastern Canada completely. Perhaps McGowan felt that the movie's credibility was stretched thin enough as it was, but he couldn't resist throwing in a couple of stereotypical Newfoundlanders and a Quebecois folk song to cover his bases. Somehow, I suspect that viewers in St. John's, Montreal, and Halifax will not take the bait.
Canada is a country composed of many vibrant and unique communities separated by vast empty expanses. However, we share a common narrative that holds us together as a country. This common narrative is exactly what this movie is missing, and why, despite some enjoyable moments, it falls apart in the end.
- tyler-irving
- Mar 14, 2009
- Permalink