Blue Bus

I recently attended a screening of "The Blue Bus" in Los Angeles, and it's one of the best films I've seen in years -- studio or independent. The story is meaningful and affecting, the performances are spot on, and it's well crafted technically. It's one of the few films I've seen in recent years that I want to see again, soon, and look forward to watching from time to time for years to come. It has a timeless quality -- due to the story and performances -- that give it the extra-special "something" that real film lovers love. In the current climate of cartoon mega-movies and ultra-shoot-'em-ups, "The Blue Bus" is exactly the kind of film that we need more of: a deep and authentic story, crafted with great love and talent. It's the kind of film that sticks to your ribs, not the kind that rots your teeth. In other words, it's a grown-up film, as opposed to the childish and adolescent flotsam and jetsam that clog the multiplexes. Do yourself a huge favor and see this movie when you can. You'll be very glad you did.

The themes in Blue Bus - loyalty, friendship, life discovery, loss and self discovery - are given a natural and uplifting treatment, making this film a breath of pure oxygen in an age of cinematic smog. The literary form most consonant with the structure of Blue Bus is poetry; but unlike so much of what claims to be poetry, Blue Bus is neither obscure in its meaning nor a beggar pleading for a response. We are given the human dignity in being flawed, and the joy in living a complex life, all in a sketch. From its camera placement to its unscripted dialog, the film engages the road upon which its two main characters travel. There is a map that is followed, but as in the lives we all actually live, it is what the travelers bring of themselves to their journey that makes it possible for them to arrive. Get off the treadmill and ride the Blue Bus.

I loved the Blue Bus -- both the movie and the actual blue VW bus. This is a lovely story of two friends on a cross-country adventure that will surely change their lives. There is something for everybody in this movie -- the scenery is magnificent, the music will get you moving in your seat, the banter keeps you wanting more . . . and then there is the Blue Bus . .. I am not sure who I was rooting for more; the guys or the bus. I found myself laughing out loud, singing out loud, and just thoroughly enjoying myself.

You won't want their journey to end and you will leave the theater feeling better than when you entered it -- I promise!

I really enjoyed this "feel good" movie. The storyline was intriguing without contrivance and the cinematography was stunning! There were scenes where I laughed out loud balanced with scenes where I got choked up. Any film that can take me on a ride of emotion gets my vote. The two male leads were always believable and real. The soundtrack complemented the visuals and one really got a feel for the soul of New Orleans. The producer, Pattie Kelly, informed the audience that this was loosely scripted which gave it its organic emotional credibility. I haven't been to New Orleans in ten years and this film revealed that even with the devastation of Katrina, the energy of the city is alive and well.

Blue Bus is a feel good, laugh out loud road-trip film with a twist. Two way down to earth characters with great chemistry drive from Los Angeles to New Orleans in a Blue VW Bus to fulfill the wish of a deceased friend. Augie and Joe suck the audience into the backseat of the Blue Bus with them as they exchange personal life stories that are sure to drum up a personal memory or two or your own while making you laugh out loud at the same time. The Blue Bus literally shone brightly against the backdrop of southern US states in beautiful scenery. Watch Blue Bus to find out what awaits the two friends in New Orleans and to find out what they learn about themselves along the way.

Recommendation: Take the Blue Bus