The Reluctant Traveller with Eugene Levy

Spectacular cinematography and really magical locations, I'll give it that. It's like "An Idiot Abroad" but Eugene just isn't as funny as Karl. I get that they're trying to get him out of his comfort zone and I respect him for doing so at 75. He really seems to be experiencing things that he'd rather not, hence the reluctant in the title. I think that element, which is the highlight of the show, is sometimes its weakest one. It gets overly repetitive and annoying at some point that it takes away from the magic of the locations he's in. Hearing someone complain the entire time on a trip is my biggest caveat, so maybe that's why I couldn't fully enjoy this show and Eugene's commentary as it is.

I recently watched the "Reluctant Traveler" documentary and was blown away by the incredible storytelling and stunning visuals of Eugene Levy. The documentary follows a Eugene Levy who initially has no interest in traveling, but through his journey, he discovers a new perspective on the world.

The documentary is expertly crafted, with beautiful cinematography and a well-paced narrative that kept me engaged from start to finish. The interviews with locals and travelers alike provide a unique and insightful look into the different cultures and traditions of each location.

One of the things I appreciated most about "Reluctant Traveler" was its ability to inspire a sense of wanderlust and adventure. The character's transformation and newfound love for travel were truly inspiring, and I found myself wanting to pack my bags and explore the world myself.

Overall, "Reluctant Traveler" is a must-see documentary for anyone who loves to travel or is looking for inspiration to embark on their own journey. It's a beautiful and thought-provoking exploration of the transformative power of travel. Five stars, without a doubt.

We know Eugene Levy is comic gold, even though this eight-episode 2023 series felt like a cross between a more jaundiced "Somebody Feed Phil" and Jack Whitehall's "Travels with My Father". His observations are less cynical than Whitehall Sr.'s and more dryly relatable except perhaps for his lifelong aversion to sushi. I think having a diametrically opposite travel companion like his son Daniel, or more ideally, Catherine O'Hara, could've made this series less one-note as we rely solely on Levy for his comments which remain consistent no matter the locale or how many exotic travel experiences he has.

There are some bad reviews here, but I think from those that don't know the background. Also... Eugene Levy is Canadian, not an American. Eugene truly does hate to travel and why he was chosen for this show. He was recently on the Smartless podcast with Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes... which is where I heard about this show. He talks about why he almost turned this project down and how truly reluctant he was to do this. He is not any of the things the negative reviews say he is. In his 70's, he is facing his fears and getting uncomfortable and it's such a joy to see Eugene Levy as himself.

I don't think I've ever enjoyed a 'celebrity' travel programme as much as this one. Eugene Levy's droll wit and self-deprecating humour are what elevate The Reluctant Traveler. Despite Levy's trepidation, he tries activities many of us will never actually get to do, and he does them with a marvellously funny perspective. I laughed out loud many times, whilst learning interesting things about a different way of life. The people he meets are fascinating and full of warmth. In today's age of depressing politics, war, climate crises etc, this televisual delight is a breath of fresh air. Sign Mr Levy up for Season Two now! Just joyous.