Redemption Road

The first hour was boreville. I only watched it because Luke Perry was in it and it was fun to see him in a Texan bad dude role. Things started picking up towards the end, and even though the film's tedious pace and low talking rhythm frustrated any enjoyment out of me, the movie managed to still jerk some metaphorical tears out of me, despite my protests at the notion of "giving in" to a movie who's life lesson was as overt as a special edition of Saved By The Bell. The film was so preachy, they literally ended with a church choir. The actors played their roles well, and it's no wonder how the movie managed to secure such talent for a excitement-less film: Actors love taking on pet projects once in a while to teach a lesson that is near and dear to their hearts and I'm sure they all have someone in their life that they know who are victims of alcohol abuse. So, the writer writes his script and it's an easy sell. But it didn't translate well because the message was way too obvious. It's a tough balance to strike, because if the lesson isn't too obvious, the lesson won't be received, but here the film strikes the opposite fate. I'd like my 90 minutes back, thank you. And I could use a drink.

I first saw this film on a DVD. It was a pleasant surprise, a road trip through the rural agricultural American South and small town folks with vivid scenery. As a troubled and irresponsible man reconnects with himself and reflects on lost relationships through grief, blues music, and accidentally discovers his long lost family. Mario Van Peebles does an excellent job directing on a low budget. I really like how Van Peebles sneaks in a glimpse of Augy, played by Michael Clarke Duncan, as Bailey walks into the pawn store to bum a harmonica from a friend. Long before Augy's character is introduced.

I really enjoyed this movie!! A great story with twist and turns, great blues and country music,characters with depth and great cinematography!!!The chemistry between all the characters including Michael Clarke Duncan,Morgan Simpson,Tom Skerritt and Kiele Sanchez was amazing too!!! Mario Van Peebles' directing lead this film through a journey that will inspire you and cause you to take a piece of it home with you. Luke Perry and Taryn Manning also put in great performances. The movie moves along at a pace that grabs your attention and you will not let go or want to look away. A must see for great entertainment,yet a story that will stick with you too!!!!

The gritty parts didn't pull any punches...this would be a good movie for recovering addicts. Many movies show the characters drinking heavily, but few show the consequences as vividly as in the beginning scenes. The character of Jefferson Bailey was flawed and almost disgusting, but his end of the road status was necessary to propel the plot forward. Maybe the story was too neatly tied together(finding someone and something important at the pawn shop)but I liked the characters enough to go along with the plot. I cried at the end. I cared about the characters, wanted them to overcome their pain and grow. The music was great, sets seemed like places I've been and it was good to see Michael Clarke Duncan, along with Tom Skerritt and the large cast of newer or unknown actors.

"Whatever he left me I don't want it and I sure as hell ain't gonna travel 900 miles to get it." Jefferson Bailey (Simpson) is a blues player who is in serious financial trouble. When a stranger (Duncan) shows up to let him know his grandfather has died and left him something he dismisses it. When someone come to collect on his debt Bailey catches up with the stranger and decides that a trip is better then the alternative. What starts off as an escape turns into a life changing experience for all involved. This is a very good movie but the music is what really make the movie what it is. If you are a fan of the blues then this movie is made for you. The plot isn't really that original but because of the music it keeps you interested and wanting to see what happens next. About half-way through the movie get very predictable but it is still interesting enough to keep you watching. While not quite at the level of "Almost Famous" or "August Rush" this is still a music movie that is worth watching. I liked it. Overall, a good movie with great music that deserves to be seen. I give it a B.