Buddymoon Now Playing at Laemmle Santa Monica

Just because I’m a classic film nut doesn’t mean that I completely eschew contemporary film. I love Wes Anderson. I can’t get enough of the Cornetto Trilogy. And I’m excited to see Finding Dory. Luckily, I get a lot of offers to review films although, frankly, most don’t appeal to me. But every once in awhile something comes through my inbox that intrigues me and that’s just what happened when I watched the trailer for Buddymoon.

Maybe I’m just a sucker for a guy in a sun costume but I decided I wanted to watch this one.

Written by David Giuntoli, Flula Borg and Alex Simmons the film centers around David, a former child star, who was recently jilted by his fiancee. Caught in a spiral of depression he’s encouraged by his best friend, Flula, to go on his planned honeymoon. As it was to be a 7 day couple’s hike through the Oregon wilderness Flula invites himself along as David’s “honey buddy.” Soon the duo find themselves on their own exploring nature and facing challenges that will ultimately test their friendship.

I really enjoyed Buddymoon. Shot on location in Oregon it’s chock full of stunning vistas that made me nostalgic for last year’s road trip. I found myself longing to be out in nature wandering among the pines although I could do without a wolf encounter.  But there was more to the film than the beautiful scenery. I was not familiar with the actors, David Giuntoli and Flula Borg, and was impressed at their handling of the story. Borg was especially funny as the goofy best friend and I often found myself laughing out loud.

Buddymoon is a sweet, slice of life film that was a true treat to watch. Opening today at Laemmle Santa Monica it’s a great film to catch on this holiday weekend. So grab your popcorn, head into the air conditioned theatre and get ready to smile. Or if you’re just too lazy you can catch it on demand.