Review by Scott Cranin
By: Scott Cranin
In-House Review - Dec 15 2011
The Trip is an ambitiously epic gay romance that traces the course of two men from their initial meeting as teenagers in 1973 until 1984. The time is the socially turbulent 1970s when radical politics and the emerging gay rights movement clashed with...
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The Trip is an ambitiously epic gay romance that traces the course of two men from their initial meeting as teenagers in 1973 until 1984. The time is the socially turbulent 1970s when radical politics and the emerging gay rights movement clashed with the rigidly conservative establishment. At a swanky L.A. party, lean and lanky Tommy (Steve Braun) locks eyes with the sexually and politically repressed Alan (Larry Sullivan). Tommy has long blond hair, and is openly gay with a glib sense of humor. While he's organizing for gay civil rights, the muscular, shaggy-haired Alan is a member of the Young Republicans and an aspiring journalist. He is working on his first book, a treatise on the evils of homosexuality, and invites Tommy over for dinner to interview him for the book. The sexual tension is so intense that Alan's kooky girlfriend Beverly (Sirena Irwin) quickly departs, leaving the two to begin a hot and steamy romance.
Fast forward to 1977 ? Anita Bryant is organizing the "Save Our Children" campaign in Florida and Alan's book has been published anonymously and used as a tool by the right-wingers. When word is leaked about who actually wrote the book, Tommy angrily leaves Alan and quickly becomes a "kept boy" of Peter (Ray Baker), a closeted wealthy gay man. Flash-forward again to the eighties, where Tommy and Alan meet up again, making this life-long romance come full circle. Supporting roles in this love story are played by Alexis Arquette as Tommy's trampy roommate, Julie Brown as a Madonna-styled secretary and Jill St. John as Alan's floozy mother who never fails in her efforts to embarrass her conservative husband (soon to be ex) and her button-down gay son.
The period sets, costumes and music add loads of campy fun to this funny, touching, political and powerfully romantic and political drama.
Review by dexotic
By: dexotic
My Lover(26yrs) and I decided to watch this together this Thanksgiving holiday and was so surprised by how absolute good this movie is. It will have you laughing in so many sections, and remembering a time long gone in so many others, and crying in o...
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My Lover(26yrs) and I decided to watch this together this Thanksgiving holiday and was so surprised by how absolute good this movie is. It will have you laughing in so many sections, and remembering a time long gone in so many others, and crying in others. But what it did for the both of us was make our bond even stronger. It makes you realize just how short life is and how important it is to say just how much you love someone before it's to late. We absolutely loved this movie.
Review by Amos Lassen
By: Amos Lassen
"THE TRIP"
On the Road
Amos Lassen
"The Trip" is not a new release from TLA but I recently watched it for a second time and saw it completely differently. It is indeed a look at the way we live as gay men and how we deal with relation...
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"THE TRIP"
On the Road
Amos Lassen
"The Trip" is not a new release from TLA but I recently watched it for a second time and saw it completely differently. It is indeed a look at the way we live as gay men and how we deal with relationships. It is filed with great lines and great dialog and the script is intelligently written. More than everything else, it is very, very funny as it deals with romance, politics and sex.
Nineteen year old Tommy, a gay rights activist and twenty four year old Alan met for the first time in 1973 and found themselves at opposite ends of the political spectrum. Despite this, they manage to overlook their differences and embark on a relationship. In 1977, at the height of the Anita Bryant's campaign against gays, an anti-gay book that Alan had written years before gets published mysteriously without his consent. The book destroys any credibility Timmy has had as a gay activist and also causes the breakup of the two. Seven years later the two meet again and take a cross country trip together. The entire mish mash results in a farcical story which is mixed with tragedy, humor, fantasy and reality. The cast was made for this film. Larry Sullivan and Steve Braun shine as Tommy and Alan and the supporting cast of Alexis Arquette, downtown Julie Brown and Jill St. John as Alan's outrageous mom are prefect.
If you missed this the first time around, don't miss it now. The dialog is super witty and the script is both moving and ambitious. I had a good time rewatching this film and I think you will also.
Review by Sean
By: Sean
This has to be one of the best love stories I have ever seen. The movie was extremely well done and the theme was extraordinary. It pulled at every heart string I had and strummed every one with emotion. Grab the box of tissue for the end. The ve...
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This has to be one of the best love stories I have ever seen. The movie was extremely well done and the theme was extraordinary. It pulled at every heart string I had and strummed every one with emotion. Grab the box of tissue for the end. The very best of boy finds boy, boys loses boy and then find him again is well played out in The Trip. The is one movue to most definetly add to your movie collection.
Review by JANORM
By: JANORM
Not since the romantic film "The Bubble," has a romantic gay film so emotionally affected me. The poignant and undulating movements of this romance between two(2) men take the audience on a life-time expereince of unparallel portions. So many of ...
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Not since the romantic film "The Bubble," has a romantic gay film so emotionally affected me. The poignant and undulating movements of this romance between two(2) men take the audience on a life-time expereince of unparallel portions. So many of us have experienced some portion of this film, that the 'dey ja vu' is and can be totally overwhelming. If you get into this picture emotionally, it can be a totally draining experience! To me the entire picture took on aspects of a modern-day greek tragedy. I could only see this film once,as I do not think my heart would survive and viewing, both physically and emotionally. Still, it is a film that can be considered to be a classic and should be added to your collection. IT IS BETTER TO HAVE LOVED AND LOST, THAN NEVER TO HAVE LOVED AT ALL!! NJMJr!!
Review by mancanfan
By: mancanfan
This is THE movie of all of the movies I own in this genre! The chemistry amongst the cast members is fantastic, the writing/directing was very good (although, I thought of a few tweaks which may have made it....GASP, dare I say better). This is the ...
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This is THE movie of all of the movies I own in this genre! The chemistry amongst the cast members is fantastic, the writing/directing was very good (although, I thought of a few tweaks which may have made it....GASP, dare I say better). This is the only movie which I have seen more than a few times. Absolutely, a wonderful movie!
Review by Chuck
By: Chuck
I saw 'The Trip' in one afternoon a week ago and it still is on my mind. For years, when I thought of men in films I thought of porno but this movie changed all that. It was a major shift in my life.
Review by Tommy Boy
By: Tommy Boy
I am a gay man who tired quickly of all of the straight love stories and decided to try and find some gay love stories. I came across 'The Trip' recently and had no idea the profound affect it would have on me.
It's basically the story of ...
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I am a gay man who tired quickly of all of the straight love stories and decided to try and find some gay love stories. I came across 'The Trip' recently and had no idea the profound affect it would have on me.
It's basically the story of love found, love lost and then love found again. Steve Braun is incredible in his portrayal of Tommy Ballenger, a young gay rights advocate who meets Allen (Larry Sullivan, Jr.) a right-wing conservative. The storyline follows their lives, friends and relationships for about 14 years.
You won't be sorry for either renting or buying this movie. You will laugh, you will cry. You won't forget 'The Trip'.
Review by Mikey likes
By: Mikey likes
Having seen virtually every gay-themed film that has ever been made and having received A+ grades in all the film studies courses that I took in college, I would like to weigh in on the excellent unique first effort that is "The Trip" written and dir...
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Having seen virtually every gay-themed film that has ever been made and having received A+ grades in all the film studies courses that I took in college, I would like to weigh in on the excellent unique first effort that is "The Trip" written and directed by very talented newcomer Miles Swain. You already know the basic plotline, timeline and substance of The Trip if you have read IMDB's information. My overarching impression of this film is that it feels real and from the heart as it shows us the relationship between two very different gay men as they age through the '70s and '80s, living their lives both together and apart amidst the ongoing struggle for equal rights for gay persons. They say opposites attract and that is very true here for lead characters Larry and Alan who clearly grow to love each other very much. The focus of this film is on the complete persons who are Alan and Larry, not just their sex life, as in so many gay-themed films. It is a delightful, moving, comedy/drama/historical record with universal themes of trusting the power of a faithful love, the importance of honesty and courage, and being true to yourself in the face of a world seemingly always against you. The film is now available on DVD with great extras from TLA Video and is very reasonably priced. It is a *must have* for any quality collection of gay-themed films. MILES SWAIN IS A DIRECTOR/WRITER TO WATCH
Review by boogalooshrimp
By: boogalooshrimp
Alright, the movie has it's good points, a fabulous cast with lots of eye candy, a former Bond girl who yucks it up, and the lovable Alexis Arquette, but that's about it. The plot was jerky and horribly transparent in some spots, particularly the en...
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Alright, the movie has it's good points, a fabulous cast with lots of eye candy, a former Bond girl who yucks it up, and the lovable Alexis Arquette, but that's about it. The plot was jerky and horribly transparent in some spots, particularly the end. The last five minutes alone were so hokey I had to fast forward. A lot of the jokes were poorly written and the supporting cast weren't characters, they were running jokes. If you want a better road trip movie, buy Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Save yourself the disappointment.
Review by Marcos
By: Marcos
I finally got a chance to review this movie which was shown on my local Cable TV...
Its a great movie with great story... however, with sad ending... i was touched and tears!
A movie not to be miss if your are attached, was atta...
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I finally got a chance to review this movie which was shown on my local Cable TV...
Its a great movie with great story... however, with sad ending... i was touched and tears!
A movie not to be miss if your are attached, was attached or working on a relationship.
Review by Davy
By: Davy
Why not get closed captioned for the hearing impaired for that particular movie? I really want to see that movie. Please GET CLOSED CAPTIONED!!!!
Review by Sebastiant78
By: Sebastiant78
This movie was incredible. At first, I was a little wery about getting this movie, but then my roommate convinced me to rent it. So we did. That was the best thing I could have ever done! The movie was very well done for it's genre. The actors w...
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This movie was incredible. At first, I was a little wery about getting this movie, but then my roommate convinced me to rent it. So we did. That was the best thing I could have ever done! The movie was very well done for it's genre. The actors were amazing!! If you have never seen a gay love story, this movie will make you addicted! I have seen it an ungodly number of times! Great job! Can't wait to see more like this one!!
Review by raluc
By: raluc
I had given up on gay movies, i used to see everything to support gay cinema.
It was always the stereotypes!!!
I got this movie and i loved it i hope more movies like this can be made with gay characters
the best gay movie i have seen ...
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I had given up on gay movies, i used to see everything to support gay cinema.
It was always the stereotypes!!!
I got this movie and i loved it i hope more movies like this can be made with gay characters
the best gay movie i have seen in years hooray for the director
all the actors were incredible, especially the young blonde girl!
Review by Luke
By: Luke
"The Trip" is a lighthearted nostalgic romp. I found the film to be refreshing in its portrayal of gay relationships over time. It does NOT take itself too seriously, and that is one of the reasons that it works. The actors deliver fine performances,...
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"The Trip" is a lighthearted nostalgic romp. I found the film to be refreshing in its portrayal of gay relationships over time. It does NOT take itself too seriously, and that is one of the reasons that it works. The actors deliver fine performances, and the dialog is crisp, funny, and well written. The only thing that I agree with the negative reviewer about is the wigs. The costumes are accurate, but the wigs are terrible. Still, this is a criticism of a well made film.
Review by Michael
By: Michael
I'm flabbergasted over all the glowing reviews for this film. Based on those very reviews I bought the film and was amazed at how terrible this film was! My friends and I, who all lived through those times, couldn't believe how wrong and how phoney t...
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I'm flabbergasted over all the glowing reviews for this film. Based on those very reviews I bought the film and was amazed at how terrible this film was! My friends and I, who all lived through those times, couldn't believe how wrong and how phoney the film was. In fact, it was so bad, we ended up howling with laughter throughout the film!
The wigs alone are hysterical! The script was unbelievably hokey, the dialogue was stilted, the jokes were terrible, the movie is constantly in search of a writer, a director and people who can act. Even indie favorite Arquette seems lost and embarassed. Too bad. In more capable hands, this film could've been interesting. Now it's a comedy, but for all the wrong reason.
Review by Catfag
By: Catfag
I was pleasantly surprised by this movie.It's the kind of movie we all wish the big studios would invest in.It had heart and was a real joy to watch.
Review by N/A
By: N/A
I loved this movie. The way that Tommy and Alan fell for each other was magical. I loved the way they connected as a couple. Despite them both being 2 different people, they managed to love in a simple and upbeat fashion . It was sad when Alan died ...
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I loved this movie. The way that Tommy and Alan fell for each other was magical. I loved the way they connected as a couple. Despite them both being 2 different people, they managed to love in a simple and upbeat fashion . It was sad when Alan died shortly after he and Tommy reunited. This movie showed how great love can be between 2 guys. Simply Perfect. Gotta Watch!
Review by Antoine in Atlanta
By: Antoine in Atlanta
Unfortunately, gay cinema of late has been supplied to us by a bevy of first time (or untalented) filmmakers, resulting in a cesspool of amateurish executions of less than medicre, sex-laden stories. 'The Trip' was refreshing, to say the very least....
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Unfortunately, gay cinema of late has been supplied to us by a bevy of first time (or untalented) filmmakers, resulting in a cesspool of amateurish executions of less than medicre, sex-laden stories. 'The Trip' was refreshing, to say the very least. I first saw the trailer for this film on a DVD of another gay film and realized that it was showing on DirectTV's Pay Per View and decided to order it. (BTW, channel 170 "Here" offers gay-themed movie nights occasionally.) Even from the opening credits, I knew this movie was totally different than the last 5 gay films I'd seen. The cinematography and soundtrack alone rose above it's contemporaries. And finally as the story began, I knew I had reached Gay Moviewatcher Heaven! It was so polished in it's look and it's writing. And the story was so knew in it's concept. I fell in love with "Alan" immediately. I mean, it was as if I were watching a 'real' movie! I didn't know what to do with myself. To the above reviewer who suggested that "Tommy" had to be a 'slut' to contract AIDS: we have to remember that this was '84 and AIDS blindsided the gay community. Condoms were seen by most as contraception, and seeing as gays can't procreate on their own...well, you do the math. I thought that aspect of the story was tragic, but realistic. The only criticism I have for the film is it's ending. I agree with a reviewer above that it was sort of wierd. It just...ended. It could have been wrapped up a little more neatly. I mean, the last line was "Thanks, that means a lot" and delivered in a way that didn't feel like a final line. Not sure if the running time was slimmed by the powers that be or what, but I would've liked to have seen "Alan's" being affected by his recent tragedy and his journey toward writing the second book. That's just me. And, I'd like to see more diversity in gay films, period. Gay film & media is so Caucasian...but so's "Friends", so what should I expect, eh! CHECK OUT THIS FILM! 4 stars!
Review by Frankie
By: Frankie
This film is well done in all aspects of the phrase. The characters are beautifully developed, the story is funny and touching (a mix of dry wit and raw emotion), the cinematography is fantastic. A period piece in which the film type is that of the...
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This film is well done in all aspects of the phrase. The characters are beautifully developed, the story is funny and touching (a mix of dry wit and raw emotion), the cinematography is fantastic. A period piece in which the film type is that of the 70s and 80s without being tacky. Larry and Steve give amazing performances with an intense chemistry.
The film delves into the struggle the GLBTQQ community went through during that time without being depressing or a documentary. It's not only the best Gay film I've seen in years, it's the best film period.
Review by Nick
By: Nick
You will fall in love with the charatcers of this movie! The story is believable and not Hollywood dramatized. This could happen to anyone. A true reminder of the value of friendship and love. Without a doubt a must see.
Review by cris
By: cris
By far the best gay film I have ever seen.
The Good: beautiful story, good actor, especially Larry, he has a extremely emotional facial performance. The plot is well designed, full of dramatic conflict, each character has own unique featur...
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By far the best gay film I have ever seen.
The Good: beautiful story, good actor, especially Larry, he has a extremely emotional facial performance. The plot is well designed, full of dramatic conflict, each character has own unique feature.
Not so good: some plots still not properly set, may be because the story is abotu a 11 years relationsip, some switchs between plots are just too sudden. Plus , the ending is just a little bit weird.
Overall, I do enjoy a gay story that last so long a time scale, and actually moved with the story going on. I dont expect every film can reach the level of "My Own private Idaho" and 'Love! Valour! Compassion!' those is already exceed the 'Good gay film', but 'Good Film', to me, 'The Trip' is far better than those pure comedy such as "all over a guy" and 'trick' (although these 2 is not bad also). I think with more maturated script and more runing time, the trip could be better, but I do think It is already a good gay film.
Review by Danny
By: Danny
This is a really cool, exciting, sexy movie. The actors are amazingly adorable, the love story between Tommy and Allan is so believable and heartwarming. However, I agree it had a really depressing ending that really let me down. That is my only m...
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This is a really cool, exciting, sexy movie. The actors are amazingly adorable, the love story between Tommy and Allan is so believable and heartwarming. However, I agree it had a really depressing ending that really let me down. That is my only major complaint about the movie. Why did he have to get AIDS? It just seemed so wrong. He wasn't the slut, his friend was more of a slut than he was. I guess after Allan and him break up he just gave into promiscuous sex and didn't use protection. Well, that just sucks. I think the writer could still have had the tragic ending if he wanted without making one of the main characters get AIDS, it just seemed like he was giving into the cinematic cliche that every gay character has to be punished at the end for their homosexuality.
Review by Ashton Miller
By: Ashton Miller
I just watched the film for the first time ever. I am one of those people who fall in love with characters very easily. I was so moved by the love between the two lead characters. The film captures my heart and carries it away to another place, an...
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I just watched the film for the first time ever. I am one of those people who fall in love with characters very easily. I was so moved by the love between the two lead characters. The film captures my heart and carries it away to another place, another time, another love. I could not help but cry at the end of the movie. But the truth is that the story here is something that we can all identify with. It is a story that can find relevance in every persons life. If you have loved in your life, then you will identify with this story. A future classic of the genre I am sure. Worth of a place beside Torch Song, Long time Companion and Maurice.
Review by JohnWPB
By: JohnWPB
This movie was recomended to me by a friend. Very good advice indeed!
This movie spans 3 decades and explores a relationship through that couse of time. The period sets, clothing and decorations are right on the money! This movie looks ...
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This movie was recomended to me by a friend. Very good advice indeed!
This movie spans 3 decades and explores a relationship through that couse of time. The period sets, clothing and decorations are right on the money! This movie looks and feels like a major motion picture, not the independant film that it is.
The acting is first rate, and you will laugh at times, and cry at times. After watching this movie 3 times now, I cant see a single thing that they could have done better!
This is an absolutely must see movie that has replaced "Trick" and "Broken Heart's Club" (It was a tie between them :) as my favorite gay themed movie to date.
Review by derek .
By: derek .
I wasn't expecting to buy this movie, after renting it. I was expecting the acting to be mediocre and overall a low-budget indy production. That attitude changed when Larry Sullivan, the actor who played Allen, exemplified what we are missing in more...
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I wasn't expecting to buy this movie, after renting it. I was expecting the acting to be mediocre and overall a low-budget indy production. That attitude changed when Larry Sullivan, the actor who played Allen, exemplified what we are missing in more traditional gay indy flicks. His characted developed from a naive college student to an outstanding and self-confident writer.
The scene of him on top of a car doing a hilarious striptease is worth the twenty-three bucks or so for the dvd. Did I mention he has a great body?
No, I am not his agent, and no, the actors in the movie did not play up to his level. Do we have to have the flamboyant, feminine supporting queen in mostly every gay movie?
Larry Sullivan makes this movie what it is. I was pleasantly surprised with this great gem of a movie, and look forward to when I get this dvd in my postal box.
Review by cuddlebear
By: cuddlebear
Many of the below 40 set have probably never heard of Love Story, but it was one of the top movies of the early 70s. The Trip reminded me of that movie and the emotions I felt when I originally saw Love Story. The Trip really tugs at the ol heart str...
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Many of the below 40 set have probably never heard of Love Story, but it was one of the top movies of the early 70s. The Trip reminded me of that movie and the emotions I felt when I originally saw Love Story. The Trip really tugs at the ol heart strings and excels in presenting surprising twists and turns until the very end. The only thing that would make it perfect would be if the sex scenes were visibly graphic. I am still waiting for some brilliant writer/producer to create a film that combines the sex scenes of the best porn woven into a story like we see in The Trip. The censors would probably blow a gasket but I believe such a film would have very broad appeal.
Review by gljin40509
By: gljin40509
I first rented this DVD from Netflix,and after watching it,realized if ever there was a MUST OWN DVD, The Trip is IT!! This movie`s appeal will resonate with a very broad audience,..not only the gay audience for which it was made..The the...
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I first rented this DVD from Netflix,and after watching it,realized if ever there was a MUST OWN DVD, The Trip is IT!! This movie`s appeal will resonate with a very broad audience,..not only the gay audience for which it was made..The themes in this superbly written and acted film reach across all lines of society..straight and gay alike.Larry Sullivan and Steve Braun as the lead characters,Alan and Tommy,not only bring these two characters to life,they are so convincing that they actually BECOME these two men.Sirena Irvin and indie fave Alexis Arquette are hilarious in their supporting roles along with veteran stars Jill St.John and Ray Baker.Not to be overlooked on the DVD is the director`s commentary which provides an interesting "backstory" about the movie as well as a commentary on FALCON`S LAIR..the legendary last home of Rudolph Valentino at which much of the movie was filmed(The first time ever this home has been used in a movie)!Miles Swain,the writer director,in my opinion is a very talented man and I only hope we see much more from him and the rest of this outstanding cast!This movie is NOT TO BE MISSED!!!!
Review by Breckman
By: Breckman
This is by far one of the best gay-romance films I have seen. Ambitious, beautiful, powerful, well-acted, and most of all, hilarious, this film documents the relationship of two men and an era in homo history. Hesitant at first, this film made me lau...
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This is by far one of the best gay-romance films I have seen. Ambitious, beautiful, powerful, well-acted, and most of all, hilarious, this film documents the relationship of two men and an era in homo history. Hesitant at first, this film made me laugh, cry, and reflect. It is a must for your DVD collection.
Review by gmanatl
By: gmanatl
I was really surprised by this movie. After watching the movie, I was stunned for a good hour just thinking back to my first experience, the emotions I had, remembering the struggles of the timeline for gay people. I watched the movie again because...
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I was really surprised by this movie. After watching the movie, I was stunned for a good hour just thinking back to my first experience, the emotions I had, remembering the struggles of the timeline for gay people. I watched the movie again because I was so engrossed in it the first time, I knew I must have missed something and I was right. This movie honestly made me laugh and at the end cry. It is rare that a movie and the actors of that movie can pull a viewer in so easily and make them feel like they are a part of the movie. I think this movie was one such film. I would recommend highly purchasing (or at least renting) this film and experience it for yourself!
Review by Netguy
By: Netguy
"The Trip", the feature debut by writer/director Miles Swain, is one of the best gay themed films I've seen in the past year. Although it does have it's shortcomings with some uneven acting and may try to tackle a bit too many plotlines, "The Trip" o...
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"The Trip", the feature debut by writer/director Miles Swain, is one of the best gay themed films I've seen in the past year. Although it does have it's shortcomings with some uneven acting and may try to tackle a bit too many plotlines, "The Trip" overall is a fun filled journey you don't want to miss that's both touching and heartfelt.
The story spans 11 years beginning in 1973 as Alan Oakley (Larry Sullivan), a young, straight, Republican newspaper reporter is working on a book about homosexuality called The Straight Truth. At a party of a friends, an older lawyer named Peter, Alan meets Tommy Ballenger(Steve Braun), an outspoken gay activist from Texas. Tommy is played by Steve Braun who gives an energetic performance to his role as does Larry Sullivan and both have a great chemistry between them. The two instantly hit if off and when Tommy is asked over to dinner by Alan, he thinks he's found his true love. Much to Tommy's surprise when he arrives he's greeted by Alan's girlfriend Beverly (Sireana Irwin), who although being a dizzy blonde can see the attraction between the two. Without giving too much away Alan and Tommy do become a couple but not without some ups and downs. The film traces their friendship through the years with some nice montages of gay history interspersed throughout with the likes of Anita Bryant's anti-gay crusade, gay activism, and the aids crisis. Also worth mentioning is the soundtrack that also reflects the times and is put to good use featuring disco, new wave and various hits from the 70's and 80's, like America's "Horse With No Name" and Missing Persons "Destination Unknown", a surprisingly nice touch. Supporting roles include a really funny Alexis Arquette, as the campy friend Michael, Jill St. John as Alan's "queer friendly" mother and a small cameo by original MTV veteran, comedian, Julie Brown. The movie's finale brings Alan and Tommy together again ala "Thelma and Louise" and takes them on a trip together, spiritually and emotionally, hence the title. Some of the scenes are a bit campy and over-the-top, the dinner party fiasco, and some a bit outlandish, gas station stickup, but for the most part it's a nice love story/friendship that spans a turbulent time and is a nice homage to gay history. "The Trip" is an enjoyable ride!
Review by btmboy
By: btmboy
Incredible film! Great acting, direction, and story. I cannot find fault with this film, it has been one of my favs so far this year and not just in gay genre. I loved the characters and didn't want the film to end. It is an incredible love stor...
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Incredible film! Great acting, direction, and story. I cannot find fault with this film, it has been one of my favs so far this year and not just in gay genre. I loved the characters and didn't want the film to end. It is an incredible love story as well as a period piece triumph.
Review by IMFreeSwimmer
By: IMFreeSwimmer
Wow. I don't think anything else needs to be said about this movie. It's been a long time since I actually cried at the end of a movie. This was truely an amazing show and the ending, while understandable, left me emotionally drained for a few day...
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Wow. I don't think anything else needs to be said about this movie. It's been a long time since I actually cried at the end of a movie. This was truely an amazing show and the ending, while understandable, left me emotionally drained for a few days. Wow.
Review by gljin40509
By: gljin40509
I watched this movie three times the first weekend and I was totally engaged every time! This si ,BY FAR, the best gay movie I have ever watched! A MUST SEE!!!!
Review by Village, Mtl
By: Village, Mtl
I saw the movie a couple of times with friends, it is a simple & fun movie. It approched some aspect of homophobia from a gay man and it appends in the real world. You must have it for your DVD collection.
Review by Mark
By: Mark
My partner and I watched this movie a few days ago. This movie hit very close to home for me. It explores so many different aspects of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Review by Lil Picky
By: Lil Picky
I wish I could get as worked up over this film as everyone else seems to be. I wanted to like it, I really did. From the moment I heard all the great word of mouth, I was expecting a superior experience. Yesterday I got an advance copy of the DVD,...
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I wish I could get as worked up over this film as everyone else seems to be. I wanted to like it, I really did. From the moment I heard all the great word of mouth, I was expecting a superior experience. Yesterday I got an advance copy of the DVD, and sat back last night to watch it, expecting to thoroughly enjoy this film. Maybe I expected too much, but I was a bit disappointed. As it stands, I had several problems with this picture. First of all, I really liked the premise, but I wanted a bit more - the film should have been at least 30 minutes longer. I found the script terribly uneven, and even though the humor sustained my interest, the situations often didn't come through as terribly real. I resented the fact that, after Tommy dumps him, Alan spends more time with Peter (the "bad guy") than the two main characters were together to begin with ? certainly plausible, but not very satisfying. It also seemed a but unrealistic for two people that age to have a four year affair, break up, and still be pining for each other seven years later ? after all, they were two young hunks in their prime. My experience at that age taught me that they both probably would have gone through several different affairs during that period, and possibly even forgotten each other completely. The film offers no idea of what their life was like during the years they were apart, except for a glimpse of the domestic life of Alan and Peter. And unless I missed something, the airport scene was the first indication that Tommy was ill, and that scene (and the scenes in the desert) just didn't ring true. If Tommy had lived in Mexico for seven years as stated, he shouldn't have been naïve enough to allow Alan to drive him across the desert with $20 between them. And why should they, when the airline tickets they were refused boarding passes for should have gotten them a cash refund of several hundred dollars? Their "adventures" in the desert, including the gas station and the police car scenes, were totally unbelievable. I also felt that Alan's mother, as played by Jill St. John, was way too over-the-top ? the alcoholic / kleptomaniac routine was so undignified that she came off to me as clownish rather than funny. And there is no explanation of how Alan's mother gets so chummy with his ex-girlfriend (who he went out with for such a short time). And finally, it may be bit picky, but as a young gay activist myself in NYC during the same period, I can tell you that I for one would not have been caught dead in 1973 with hair as long as Tommy's. 1968? Sure - but by 1973, almost everyone I know had shed their extra long locks for something more resembling what the guys had in the 1977 segments, and by 1977 all my friends were wearing their hair quite short. A number of people have touted this film as the greatest gay romantic film yet, but I liked Trick, Maurice and especially Big Eden far better. One last thing ? the producers of this film clearly expected a hit among gay audiences ? it seems to me that if they'd spent just a little more on the budget, and thought the script out just a little more carefully, it would have worked much better. Despite my many misgivings, I did enjoy it very much, and I will still recommend it, but I think it could have been twice the picture that it is.
Review by Trip lover
By: Trip lover
I'm so pleased that this film is finally coming to video. I've seen the movie so may times in the theater that I could buy 10 DVD's with the money! I hope everyone I know realizes what they're getting for Xmas this year!
Review by Wolfgang
By: Wolfgang
This film had me enrapt from beginning to end. I have
nowhere seen (and ladies and gentlemen I have seen
a lot) a love story between two men that caused me to
experience catharsis in its true sense a la the ancient
Greeks as thi...
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This film had me enrapt from beginning to end. I have
nowhere seen (and ladies and gentlemen I have seen
a lot) a love story between two men that caused me to
experience catharsis in its true sense a la the ancient
Greeks as this film did. It is brilliant!
This review is deliberately a description of its impact on
me affectively because therein lie its power and, I
repeat, I have never been affected by any movie
about gay love as I was by this film. It is the adult
counterpart to A Beautiful Thing (which also rocks!).
The movie is as classy and sexy as its director
and cast.
I never recommend films as I find one's likes/dislikes
of films to be so personal. This one I have no trouble
encouraging everyone to see.
Review by ponyboy
By: ponyboy
OOPS - I missed the star rating box - do please fix - but it should be a 10 star film - cant beleive local reviews gave it a 2 star - idiots - they must not beleive in love! How sad for them - Heres to hoping we all find our own TOMMY!
Review by ponyboy
By: ponyboy
OOPS - I missed the star rating box - do please fix - but it should be a 10 star film - cant beleive local reviews gave it a 2 star - idiots - they must not beleive in love! How sad for them - Heres to hoping we all find our own TOMMY!
Review by ponyboy
By: ponyboy
WOW - This movie is over the top fun and moving at the same time! I cried as much as I laughed! Cant wait for the dvd, and really want the soundtrack - NOW - this movie is outstanding! Made me wish for a boyfriend like TOMMY - we should all be so ...
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WOW - This movie is over the top fun and moving at the same time! I cried as much as I laughed! Cant wait for the dvd, and really want the soundtrack - NOW - this movie is outstanding! Made me wish for a boyfriend like TOMMY - we should all be so lucky!!!!!!!!! IF you only see one gay movie this year - THE TRIP is the choice to make!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks for making me feel so good - it was worth the wait!!
Peace --- Richard in Denver
Review by ponyboy
By: ponyboy
WOW - This movie is over the top fun and moving at the same time! I cried as much as I laughed! Cant wait for the dvd, and really want the soundtrack - NOW - this movie is outstanding! Made me wish for a boyfriend like TOMMY - we should all be so ...
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WOW - This movie is over the top fun and moving at the same time! I cried as much as I laughed! Cant wait for the dvd, and really want the soundtrack - NOW - this movie is outstanding! Made me wish for a boyfriend like TOMMY - we should all be so lucky!!!!!!!!! IF you only see one gay movie this year - THE TRIP is the choice to make!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks for making me feel so good - it was worth the wait!!
Peace --- Richard in Denver
Review by Preppy
By: Preppy
THE TRIP is an absolutely superb gay movie and will continue to
Be a major hit with the gay community. Don't miss this one, it is
Loving story, both humorous, and sad, and portrays gay life accurately
From the 70 to the mid 80's.
Review by artmensor
By: artmensor
I saw this movie yesterday, and I can't get it out of my mind. I was there during the 60's, 70's & 80's, and went through much of what is portrayed in the movie. I knew people like the characters, and it was all very real and very well put together...
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I saw this movie yesterday, and I can't get it out of my mind. I was there during the 60's, 70's & 80's, and went through much of what is portrayed in the movie. I knew people like the characters, and it was all very real and very well put together. I only wish that more gay movies would provide us with hopefull endings. My only negative about the whole movie. And, Brad Pitt better be aware that there is a new young actor that looks like he did when he was clean looking! I, too, LOVED this movie!
Review by nursman
By: nursman
Awesome moving. Has a wonderful story with great actors. It is moving, sexy and even sad at times. It affected all my emotions sometimes at the same time. I cannot wait for it to come out so I can have a copy!
Review by Guiltybutinsane
By: Guiltybutinsane
This movie, is without a doubt the best gay movie ever made!! The relationship between the two main characters is so sweetly told. The ending is biterrsweet and makes you happy and sad at the same time. The movie is funny and dramatic and everythin...
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This movie, is without a doubt the best gay movie ever made!! The relationship between the two main characters is so sweetly told. The ending is biterrsweet and makes you happy and sad at the same time. The movie is funny and dramatic and everything in between. After seeing this you will feel like you just witnessed something amazing.
Review by film buff
By: film buff
I'VE SEEN IT 4 TIMES ALREADY AND I'LL SEE IT AGAIN. BEST DATE MOVIE, BEST COMEDY, BEST FILM WITH A GAY THEME. I LOVE THIS FILM!!!!!!
Review by wolfgang
By: wolfgang
My comments are more visceral than analytical.
This movie is singularly THE best film about gay love and relationships that I have ever seen. It is as classy and sexy as its cast and director.
Trust me --- unless you have a hea...
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My comments are more visceral than analytical.
This movie is singularly THE best film about gay love and relationships that I have ever seen. It is as classy and sexy as its cast and director.
Trust me --- unless you have a heart of stone --- you cannot miss seeing this truly amazing flick.