The Doo Dah Man

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.

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.

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.

The Doo Dah Man unfolds gently and with humour. It looks good and the acting is persuasive. You care about both the main characters, and the relationship which develops between them. For much of its course this entertaining film portrays a generally benign world of enjoyable roguishness and likeable people. Yet the main characters are driven by an unresolved sadness, and the film touches lightly but resonantly on some deep themes, particularly the consequences of a broken relationship between father and son.

The casting for this film was really good whereby a hard bitten ex con meets a naïve fellow traveller, with both characters running away from their past. The story develops with a delightful twist at the end. A very enjoyable ride!