I haven't seen Rumer Willis in anything before and only know her through tabloid headlines, as such I didn't hold high hopes for this but the description sounded interesting so I thought I'd give it a go. I'm glad I did. The story is really slow paced and I did feel that there were times more detail could have been provided to clarify where the characters are and why. As it is you kind of have to make assumptions at times and write a bit of the story yourself. The way the film has been shot and edited is amazing. Really helps to highlight and play on emotion. The actors had great chemistry and had either of them been paired with someone else it may not have worked as well. Chris was especially believable and I loved watching how both characters and their relationship developed along the way. As a victim of abuse myself I was able to relate to Rumer's character and the mood swings from super confident kick ass to vulnerable and wilting. I felt she played it well. This isn't a film I could watch more than once but I would recommend it
12 Reviews
An emotional pull
adrienew-844-97572014 November 2013
This movie is so well written. It reminded me of a series of vignettes, after the mid point I thought that every scene was going to be the last one and was pleasantly surprised when it wasn't. There are a lot of emotions packed into the movie as a whole.
There were points when I was shocked, some when I laughed out loud, and some when I shed a tear. I haven't seen many films that can pull that breadth of responses from me.
I was really taken by Willis' performance. She had never been a serious consideration to me, but now I am looking forward to watching her future work.
There were points when I was shocked, some when I laughed out loud, and some when I shed a tear. I haven't seen many films that can pull that breadth of responses from me.
I was really taken by Willis' performance. She had never been a serious consideration to me, but now I am looking forward to watching her future work.
Worth Checking Out
JakeRfilmfreak24 January 2023
At first I thought I was going to hate this movie based on the opening sequence. But once the opening music began as she started her journey I was intrigued.
You'll obviously see lots of other stories from previous films in this one, but it was still done very well.
Rumer Willis does a great job as Maya. A young woman lost on her path to find herself. And along the way she meets Duncan (Chris Marquette) who's rain man like qualities make the story all the more interesting.
I'm not trying to give spoilers, but I really liked the film more than I thought I would. A nice road trip film with lots of heart.
You'll obviously see lots of other stories from previous films in this one, but it was still done very well.
Rumer Willis does a great job as Maya. A young woman lost on her path to find herself. And along the way she meets Duncan (Chris Marquette) who's rain man like qualities make the story all the more interesting.
I'm not trying to give spoilers, but I really liked the film more than I thought I would. A nice road trip film with lots of heart.
Why you should see this movie
zgpinc12 June 2014
I just saw ODD WAY HOME at the Albuquerque Film Festival, where it deservedly won the Audience Choice for Best Picture. Knowing it's content and that it was a low-budget labor of love, I had very modest expectations. Well, fact is I was stunned. There are two stellar performances from Chris Marquette and Rumer Willis that carry the film.
She is a screwed up singer headed to LA and he an autistic soul, who come together in an odd way (no spoilers) and grow individually and jointly. These are performances you could only get from great talents early in their careers. They are so alive and vulnerable my wife and I literally forgot we were watching a movie. You cry, hurt and laugh with them in ways you just never will with a "star" driven and laden movie.
We all seek intimacy, profound intimacy. It's here in all it's tenderness, bitterness and brutality; yet it resonates. All I can say is see it. You will be changed, for afterward you will not see people the same way. It makes you compassionate.
As to the "artie bucco" review of ODD WAY HOME that also appears on IMDb, I can only assume it's someone with major issues. His negative comments just don't make sense. (NOTE: "artie bucco" was the owner of the SOPRANOS restaurant of choice. Really surprised that IMDb would let this fake critic have any space for spewing hatred)
This is really the kind of film aimed at the heart, not at the box-office or cash box. While it's not perfect it is pure INDY expression at it's near best.
She is a screwed up singer headed to LA and he an autistic soul, who come together in an odd way (no spoilers) and grow individually and jointly. These are performances you could only get from great talents early in their careers. They are so alive and vulnerable my wife and I literally forgot we were watching a movie. You cry, hurt and laugh with them in ways you just never will with a "star" driven and laden movie.
We all seek intimacy, profound intimacy. It's here in all it's tenderness, bitterness and brutality; yet it resonates. All I can say is see it. You will be changed, for afterward you will not see people the same way. It makes you compassionate.
As to the "artie bucco" review of ODD WAY HOME that also appears on IMDb, I can only assume it's someone with major issues. His negative comments just don't make sense. (NOTE: "artie bucco" was the owner of the SOPRANOS restaurant of choice. Really surprised that IMDb would let this fake critic have any space for spewing hatred)
This is really the kind of film aimed at the heart, not at the box-office or cash box. While it's not perfect it is pure INDY expression at it's near best.
Very beautiful film.
jodilynnthomas30 August 2013
This is a very moving, and lovely film. The writing was unique, clever, and sharp. The acting seemed effortless, and was extremely spot-on. Maya was a very sharp, natural, and empathetic character played by Rumer Willis. Her voice/music was also very nice (might I add). Chris Marquette just could not have done better with his very intricate/lovable character. One of my favorite performances was portrayed by Veronica Cartwright towards the very end of the film. Just truly great all around. I would highly suggest this film. All the performances were at the level they should have been. No one over did it or under-did it. If that works as a sentence. And that is my review of this film.
Poignant, moving film
ashleighstar17 November 2013
I really enjoyed this film.
First, I was totally impressed with Rumor Willis's acting chops. She was really strong, as was the actor playing the lead male role, Duncan.
The film was interesting from the very beginning. I had no idea what was going to happen, and I was curious/engaged the whole time. I prefer films that feature characters that are complicated in some way, as I think people in general are more interesting when they are complex. And not the sort of shallow complexity that you find in many films these days, but true life experience driven complexity. The characters in this film had so much richness and depth and I related to them in different ways. I found myself very involved in their story.
I thought it was really good. I highly recommend.
First, I was totally impressed with Rumor Willis's acting chops. She was really strong, as was the actor playing the lead male role, Duncan.
The film was interesting from the very beginning. I had no idea what was going to happen, and I was curious/engaged the whole time. I prefer films that feature characters that are complicated in some way, as I think people in general are more interesting when they are complex. And not the sort of shallow complexity that you find in many films these days, but true life experience driven complexity. The characters in this film had so much richness and depth and I related to them in different ways. I found myself very involved in their story.
I thought it was really good. I highly recommend.
Voice of reason required.
sopranosfan6663 June 2014
Having read the reviews on IMDb.com, I can only conclude that Rumer Willis has a team of bloggers working for her. Her performance is, at best, weak and at times it is totally unbearable. I am left wondering if her inclusion in the role is more to do with her perceived 'box-office' draw than her lamentable acting ability. The premise of the story is good enough to have attracted a much more plausible female lead, but this film will be struggling to acquire any punters who aren't simply conditioned 90210ers. There is something very distracting about Ms Willis' screen presence, which I am unable to put my finger on. Unfortunately, that distraction is to the detriment of the storyline and other characters in the cast. I think the distraction may be emanating from an area of my brain that manages belief/disbelief. In conclusion, if you like all things Rumer, you may well like this. If you enjoy good acting, don't bother.
Compelling story and beautifully filmed.
lbondmau7 November 2013
Warning: Spoilers
This is a visually stunning film with a story that pulls in the viewer. The characters are diverse and interesting. Their humanity and imperfections are central to the beauty of the film.
The viewer travels with the characters and experiences what is around each corner as they do. I hope this is part one of this story because I hated to see it end.
The acting is strong and even. Cartwright's experience shows. But there is no distracting poor acting in this film. There is a difficult balance achieved between humor and profound seriousness. Worth a see! You will learn, laugh, and cry.
The viewer travels with the characters and experiences what is around each corner as they do. I hope this is part one of this story because I hated to see it end.
The acting is strong and even. Cartwright's experience shows. But there is no distracting poor acting in this film. There is a difficult balance achieved between humor and profound seriousness. Worth a see! You will learn, laugh, and cry.
A jewel at the Austin Film Festival!
noimnotawaitress4 November 2013
Warning: Spoilers
This film was, by far, the best film I saw at the Austin Film Festival. The storyline left me laughing one minute and crying the next, and the performances by the two leads-- especially Marquette-- are Oscar worthy.
Rumer's portrayal of damaged young woman, Maya, reminded me of a performance we might have seen from Kristen Stewart, save for a couple of actions that could have been clearer. But, overall, she was breathtaking in this role.
And where exactly has Chris Marquette been hiding? This guy is an incredible actor. He managed to portray this kind-hearted, autistic man in a way that was equal parts comical and heartbreaking but always one hundred percent truthful.
This is definitely one to see if you're a fan of emotion or humanity.
Rumer's portrayal of damaged young woman, Maya, reminded me of a performance we might have seen from Kristen Stewart, save for a couple of actions that could have been clearer. But, overall, she was breathtaking in this role.
And where exactly has Chris Marquette been hiding? This guy is an incredible actor. He managed to portray this kind-hearted, autistic man in a way that was equal parts comical and heartbreaking but always one hundred percent truthful.
This is definitely one to see if you're a fan of emotion or humanity.
Dying to see this movie again!!
rkronstadt8 November 2013
The Odd Way Home is a movie that will stay with you for days. You laugh, you cry but most importantly you reflect.
Rumer's performance was so honest. A young women who has been dealt a bad hand. Her performance particular the detox scene really makes you think how far just a little bit of kindness can go and how everyone needs someone to stand up for them. One of the best scenes that I have ever seen in any movie is the one that takes place between Rumer and Veronica Cartright. Knee buckling. I can't wait to see this movie again and again.
Another note...the music combined with the cinematography is a real piece of art. I can't wait to buy the soundtrack (please include Rumer's song if you can) and I can't wait to go on my next road trip. Thank you!
Rumer's performance was so honest. A young women who has been dealt a bad hand. Her performance particular the detox scene really makes you think how far just a little bit of kindness can go and how everyone needs someone to stand up for them. One of the best scenes that I have ever seen in any movie is the one that takes place between Rumer and Veronica Cartright. Knee buckling. I can't wait to see this movie again and again.
Another note...the music combined with the cinematography is a real piece of art. I can't wait to buy the soundtrack (please include Rumer's song if you can) and I can't wait to go on my next road trip. Thank you!
A beautiful film of an unusual journey
mgspampi7 November 2013
The Odd Way Home shows us the journey of Maya, a damaged young singer and Duncan, a sheltered young man, from hostile strangers to family. In one of the best scenes in the film, the two talk about how the desert was once the sea floor as they drive through the night. As if they are traveling through an alternate universe, what looks like snow shimmers past the windows. The audience shares the sense of awe with Duncan and Maya. It's moments like these that set The Odd Way Home apart. There is not a single clichéd moment in this film.
Rumer Willis is vulnerable as Maya and Chris Marquette is amazing at Duncan. It will make you cry. The supporting cast is strong, especially Veronica Cartwright, who will blow you away. Also what a wonderful surprise to discover that Rumer is a kick ass singer!
Rumer Willis is vulnerable as Maya and Chris Marquette is amazing at Duncan. It will make you cry. The supporting cast is strong, especially Veronica Cartwright, who will blow you away. Also what a wonderful surprise to discover that Rumer is a kick ass singer!
Stunning
scanlon-christine14 November 2013
The Odd Way Home is a film that tells the gripping story of a young woman dealing with her lot in life often having made bad decisions along her path. It touches on something that almost every young adult and adult can relate to; this one included. It was beautifully written and expertly executed.
I was blown away by the depth of the characters and particularly by Willis and Marquette's portrayals of them. Honestly, who has been keeping these actors under lock and key? They were so honest and real that I felt I was sitting in on the scenes with them. Which, by the way, speaks to the beautiful cinematography that the film maintains throughout.
This film is gut wrenching and heartwarming. It made me laugh. It made me cry. It gave me hope, took it away, and gave it back again. It's a film about life and making one's way through it the best way that they can.
I highly recommend this film and plan to add it to the shelves of my personal library. Yes, I still have movies on DVD on my shelves.
I was blown away by the depth of the characters and particularly by Willis and Marquette's portrayals of them. Honestly, who has been keeping these actors under lock and key? They were so honest and real that I felt I was sitting in on the scenes with them. Which, by the way, speaks to the beautiful cinematography that the film maintains throughout.
This film is gut wrenching and heartwarming. It made me laugh. It made me cry. It gave me hope, took it away, and gave it back again. It's a film about life and making one's way through it the best way that they can.
I highly recommend this film and plan to add it to the shelves of my personal library. Yes, I still have movies on DVD on my shelves.
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