The Doo Dah Man

Another fine film in the tradition of European directors taking to the open US road. Also great to see the underrated Glenn Morshower - one of the finer character actors at work today - in a meatier role. Director Claude Green handles the story well and aces the atmosphere, capturing the spirit of a young man who yearns for adventure but soon realises the one thing he can't escape is himself.

I'm drawn to a) road movies b) true stories and c) easy viewing humours films. The Doo Dah Man ticked all of the above.

The story is gently told, not digging too deeply into the probable gritty details for Jake's journey. The connection between Smitty and Jake unfolds nicely.

Glenn Morshower, as Smitty, is great as the lovable rouge grifter that schools the rather naive hitch-hiker Is worth the watch alone. Although conning nuns had me conflicted.

The music is great.

Glad it is on Amazon Prime now, as my first viewing experience was poor quality. Looking forward to watching it through again.

The road movie has been re-invented may times but the Doo Dah Man is something different. Not seeking to shcok or surprise, this film gently builds the accidental relationship between two travellers with a generational difference. Both esacping something, they uneasily discover and devlop friendship and human care along the journey. The story draws you in calmly and carefully leads you to a compelling need for an outcome for both of them individually, and for their relationship. A most enjoyable and tenderly protrayed story.

This film is a pleasure to watch. The pacing is relaxed, but not drawn out, and the cinematography is stunning. The dialogue provides a good mix of humor and emotion, and the lead roles are well cast.

Such a lovely movie and the fact that it's based on a true story heightens the appeal. Well written, produced and directed. The movie is engaging and I felt drawn to both Smitty and Jake's stories.