The Trip is a packed gay romantic comedy based on a true story between a right wing Republican and a gay rights activist during the 1970s and 80s.
It starts with Alan, a committed Republican who is writing a book on the history of homosexuality, who meets the right on gay activist, Tommy, at a party. Tommy agrees to be interviewed for his book. Predictably, Alan falls for Tommy and they start a relationship and move in with each other. The film jumps four years where the publishing company decide to publish Alan's book at the time of an anti-gay vote in Florida and they split. It is not until a few years later when Alan learns that Tommy has AIDs and decides to be with him again and take their once in a life time road trip through Mexico.
Although very predictable and includes the standard cliches that featured in every gay-AIDs films of the 1990s, there is something very moving about this film. The on-screen chemistry between the two leads is very touching, especially in the second part of the film. Maybe I just like the slushy romantic stuff but was quite moved by the ending.
The film got quite over-packed with the director needing to include ever major bit of the gay liberation movement footage - reminiscent of Milk. I do not think this film needed it but I think the director wanted to make a small political point.
There was moments of comical genius but also a bit too much goofy slapstick which can be forgiven for the inspired decision to cast Alexis Arquette as the comedy role.
Despite its predictability and cliches, I think The Trip was a delightful little film and a great way to spend a Saturday night in.
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