Grandes amigos

Okay, this movie isn't great art, but it's delightful, funny, filled with veteran actors (Nick Nolte, Robert Redford, Mary Steenburgen, and Emma Thompson who, as usual, is absolutely perfect for the part she plays. I loved it because I'm not a hiker, and I truly felt every bit of resistance that Nolte's character expresses to being out in nature while on foot. There are many, many lines that made me laugh out loud. I am not a laugh-out-loud person generally and I didn't read the book, so I don't know whether Bryson is responsible. I am also resistant to feel-good movies but this was definitely in that genre. I've always loved Nick Nolte and am sad that he has become so obese, but his innate attractiveness made me forget how misshapen he is. Definitely (contrary to at least one reviewer's claims) there was a lot about mortality. Definitely (contrary to a couple of reviewers' claims) there is a plot and there is a destination (I say this as a published novelist and short story writer, as well as a former teacher of creative writing). I suspect this movie appeals more to people of a certain age—it certainly appealed to me.

I truly enjoyed this movie, had all experienced, professional actors and actresses and it showed. Those critics that say there is no plot or drama are either too young to appreciate the aging life lessons and insights or too serious and particular and need to lighten up. I, and many in the theater, had quite a few laugh out loud moments. This is a movie for the more mature, intelligent crowd. Not for someone looking for a tense drama, or twitch action flick. I have not read the book but have read reviews that stated the book was even better so I know what my next read will be. This movie had some great nature shots of the AT which was an added bonus. Thought Nick Nolte and Robert Redford were good casting for their characters.

Caught a screening of this movie in Salt Lake City. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy put it on. What a fun movie, Nolte is great in it!! I was quite surprised on how funny he was. Redford and Nolte make a good team. About time a Bryson book got up on the big screen. I wonder how much of an increase in foot traffic there will be on the AT after this movie gets released. I'm sure next summer will be quite a bit busier. If a movie makes me want to go to the location/s it takes place I count that as a great movie. If you are a fan of the book, actors, hiking, nature or have hiked the AT you should enjoy this one. Well worth the visit to the cinema.

Bill Bryson is a national treasure. His books are so pleasant to read. This book takes us on a natural joyride. This is the kind of thing that would attract Robert Redford, and it did. Redford plays the middle aged Bryson who, after attending the funeral of a friend his age, decides to hike the Appalachian Trail, a hiking trip of over 2000 miles from Georgia to Maine, much to the chagrin of his wife. He joins up with the only guy who is willing to accompany him, an overweight, recovering alcoholic played by Nick Nolte. Bryson/Redford has no respect for this guy. The complaining starts after they've gone about a hundred years. As time goes along, there is a story to tell and it is charming. Unfortunately, the good buddies thing, while entertaining, has been done so many times. Nolte is a really interesting character, while Redford is stiff and pretty boring. It's very predictable. The scenery is great and we get a sense of what is involved in all of this. Not a bad movie. It's just a little lacking in oomph.

I enjoyed this film. No politics, no pandering, just light humor involving two old codgers doing something really stupid. It's a good and relaxing watch with a strong cast led by Redford and Nolte.