Fandango
follows the five friends (one of which sleeps nearly all the film,
the other an almost silent behemoth - studying to be a minister no
less!) on their quest to not only dig up their “friend” Dom but
maybe find some direction in their uncertain futures.
Gardner Barnes (a
very young Kevin Costner), desperate to keep his group of friends
“The Groovers” together as well as maintain the party lifestyle of
university, convinces his buddies to go on one last road trip so
that he can avoid growing up and perhaps more importantly dodge the
Vietnam draft. Gardner’s best friend Kenneth Waggener (Sam Robards)
goes along with the plan, also perhaps looking to escape The Draft
and his broken. Rounding out the main characters is tightly wound
Phil Hicks (Judd Nelson) who goes along with things mainly to fit
in, and because they are using his car.
Fandango
is an above
average road trip movie that fleshes out its characters better than
most modern incarnations of the genre. Whilst the story does have a
seen it before feel it also has some nice plot reveals that add to
the overall experience, the true identity of Dom (though obvious) is
nicely played, as is the resolution to Gardner’s romantic day
dreams. Also unlike modern day road trip movies
Fandango avoids an abundance of gross out humour and
sexual situations. What it does provide is a touching coming of age
story about the uncertainty of the future and the responsibilities
of adulthood.
Kevin Costner is
engaging in one of his early performances bringing good time guy
Gardner Barnes to life. He is outshined somewhat by Judd Nelson as
Phil Hicks the uptight “weenie” more interested in responsibility
and being serious than fun. It is Hick’s “I’ll prove I’m a Man”
parachute jump that provides the comedic highlight of the film.
Credit must also be given to Marvin J. McIntyre who plays Truman
Sparks the maniac parachute school pilot with suitable comedic
aplomb.
This is a very
basic DVD package, with only the original theatrical trailer
included as a bonus. Luckily the movie more than makes up for the
DVD’s shortcomings with likable characters, engaging and comedic
situations and a solid at times emotional story all wrapped up in a
neat little package.
Engaging and
Enjoyable - 3 out of 5 Stars.
