Finding Jack Kerouac (2002) User Reviews

Worth seeing.

[heyl5938 · 9/10 · 26 February 2006]

True wit. Working on a tight budget, Lyon's work is impressive. You can see a natural knack for movie-making and a talent waiting to break out. This is an independent filmmaker whom we need to see more of. The characters are recognizable and familiar--all people you know, or at least knew of. The adventures have a new twist, and Lyon introduces the viewer to enough colorful bit players to keep the film moving. Trains, bars, hobos, barmaids, hotels, night, day, Central Park, the car that you used to have--all the essential ingredients are here. The earnest quest of the title is offset by where these characters land and what they do. The true value in this film is that it takes you somewhere other than where you think it is going. Often you think you know the next line, then Lyon gives a head fake and shows you something fresh. If you spent more than four years at college, know someone who did, or wish you had, this is a film that is worth seeing.

Great, fun flick

[miked85 · 8/10 · 16 May 2007]

I saw this movie in a film class in HS and loved it. With the exception of a handful of shots and sets that make the film look a little dated and the obvious fact that they couldn't afford more than a handful of extras, it's fantastic. If you can appreciate a friendly poke at writers and dreamers, this is a great one. For example:

"You mean you let me come all the way to New York to find Jack Kerouac and you didn't mention that HE WAS DEAD?"

"I thought you were being cosmic or something. Like when people say 'I'm going to find myself.'"

It almost has the same feel as one of the old National Lampoons (you know, before they were just an accessory you purchased for the title of your movie).