Forever Lulu

Along for the Ride (or "Forever Lulu") is not a special film by any means. It's quite average like most films it has its moments. The only really surprising thing about it is how powerful the source music is at the end. Other than that the plot is pretty much predictable. Melanie Griffith does an absolutely amazing job in this film yet again and if you're a fan of hers its the only reason to see this film. Penelope Ann Miller is also quite good in a supporting part. If you have some time to kill this ain't bad.

A soul-searching, touching film with excellent performances by all of the major characters. The film was in many ways much less predictable than I had thought it would be at the very beginning. Ms Griffin gives an excellent and totally believable performance; plus, an unusually clear insight into the mind of her character--not an easy task at all. I hesitated to buy this one, so I rented it. I am so glad I did...the movie was much more than I had expected from reading the cover and well worth the watch. On the other hand, I found it to be very unsettling and therefore am glad that I did not buy it because I will always remember this one clearly enough not to want to watch it again--it reaches deep into your heart. Highly recommended...

What was Patrick Swayze thinking here, he may have very well hit his head one too many times in one of those rumored drunken plane episodes. This movie sounded WOW! on paper, had a promising cast, but was put together and written unbelievably lame. Scene-by-scene, decent even good acting, but put into context nothing seemed to jive. The characters were compelled to be together by nothing more than the script, real life could have never fueled so much awkward interaction and endeavor. Any hope the storyline had was completely lost in execution and directing. There were times I heard cameramen groaning. It was great by high school play standards, but less fun. The cross country trip felt like one. Michael J. Pollard (C.W. Moss from 1967's Bonnie and Clyde) was a potential completely misused in this film. My mailman could have played his part. As A hitchhiker with merely a couple of great lines like "can I get in the front seat" and "you're really one crazy lady" his character makes it one mile down the interstate before Griffith kicks him out. I should have gotten out where he did.

Where this film isn't a masterpiece by any means, it is certainly worth the time. Melanie Griffith shines in her role as Lulu and Joseph Gordon-Levitt stands out yet again in the role of Martin. Unfortunately, his time is much too brief in the film, as I think he's probably the most underrated actor today. He's extremely believable in his role and he showed us exactly how one would act in the situation his character was in.

Give the film a shot, it's worth the time- forget some of the characters Swayze has played in the past and look at him for the character he's playing now. Watch Melanie become Lulu... And lastly, you'll believe Gordon-Levitt is Martin in the awkward situation he's been thrown into.

Acting is an A, film is a B.

Forget all the analyses and comparisons and fan enthusiasm. Forget the stupid episode of Penelope Miller (playing a qualified psychiatrist) throw herself at a fellow air traveler (thank goodness they didn't add in a bedroom scene - that would really have driven the film off course!). This film is emotional, yes, but also real. I know individuals who have gone through torment like this. I am also impressed by the way in which each character came quietly to grips with his/her situation at the end. That was very perceptive of the makers because that was what would have happened. The way that Swayze's character communicates with his wife in the car on leaving the airport is very believable and makes you appreciate the work they are both going to put in to remake their marriage. Probably the whole ending winds you up so tightly because of Lauren Kinkade's song "Say Goodbye". She sounds so much like Sheena Easton and that made me sit up as SE and Melanie Griffiths have a Don Johnson connection. That would have been too much!! I'm really glad to have come across this DVD.