On the Road: A Joyride or Just a Flat Tire?

Alright folks, let’s saddle up ’cause we’re diving into “On the Road.” A film based on that infamous Jack Kerouac novel which, let’s be honest, sat on many of our shelves just to make us look smarter at parties. Directed by Walter Salles, who also did “The Motorcycle Diaries” – a film about another kind of road trip – this one promises adventure, freedom, and enough angst to fill a Smörgåsbord.

Here’s the deal. The movie stars Garrett Hedlund (yeah, the dude from “Tron”) as Dean Moriarty, a charming rogue who wouldn’t feel out of place at a Södermalm café with their brooding gaze. And there’s Kristen Stewart as Marylou, sprinkling some post-“Twilight” sparkle, though I gotta say, she’s better here than twinkling in the woods. Also, the mix includes Viggo Mortensen. His touch of gravitas sometimes feels like parmesan on a hotdog – too good and out of place.

In true road trip fashion, the film takes you on seat-confusing journeys but without GPS. It’s visually stunning, capturing America’s vast landscapes; you can nearly feel the tarmac under your feet. But at times, the narrative feels like it’s droning on like granddad’s tales of yore, where you’d sit it out outta respect more than interest.

Funny thing, the road trip theme hit home. Got me reminiscing about when I was a young bloke, tearing down the E4 from Stockholm to Gothenburg. Back then, life was full of possibilities, and thankfully fewer speed cameras. Maybe it’s the nostalgia, but it made me realize how these “searching for meaning” jaunts tap into universal hopes.

Anyhoo, “On the Road” – it’s not everyone’s cup of java, but it might just be worth that detour. It’s an experience more than a storytelling masterpiece. Not quite a flat tire, more like a slow leak – it gets you from A to B, just with a few pit stops on the way.

Check the trailer below