
There are many road trip films set in the USA, but here is my top 5. Some of them may be less common than other similar lists – but that’s the idea, right, to learn about something new and alternative!
5. My Blueberry Nights (2007)
Wonderfully, slightly offbeat characters from Kar Wai Wong headed by an interesting combination of Jude Law and Norah Jones. The film takes in New York, Memphis, Nevada and well, it says a few things about broken hearts.
4. Sideways (2004)
Okay, I know this isn’t usually considered to be a ‘road trip’ in the normal sense, but they do go on drive around roads – they just happen to limit themselves to California. It’s a wonderful film, full of pathos, frustration, humour and of course wine. Paul Giamatti is brilliant.
3. America Unchained (2007)
This is Dave Gorman’s film of his book, and although I think the book is actually better (okay, yes, I read that first), the film still gives you a vision of some of the experiences he describes in the written version. It’s an account of how Gorman tries to drive across America without giving any money to “the man”, eating, sleeping and filling up with gas at independent stores and ‘Mom and Pop’ places. It’s full of Gorman’s insights and humour and gives you a different view of the US.
2. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
Just a wonderful film of a non-conforming family, a VW van, a dodgy grandfather, a suicidal gay Proust-loving man and a little girl who wants to be Little Miss Sunshine. Made me laugh out loud so often. Just fantastic. If you have never watched this then rent it tonight.
1. Thelma and Louise (1991)
Maybe a bit predictable that this would be in the list but there’s a reason for that: and that’s because I think it is the architypal American Road Trip film. It has everything from the roads and the amazing American scenery of the mid-west, a great soundtrack that will stay with you, stunning performances from Sarandon and Davis (and a still young Brad Pitt) and plenty of plot to keep you engrossed. And of course a famous ending over the Grand Canyon. What more could you want from a road trip?