MOVIE REVIEW | The Last Journey – A heartfelt exploration of family, nostalgia, and missed opportunities. Directed by: Filip Hammar and Fredrik Wikingsson. Starring: Filip Hammar, Fredrik Wikingsson, and Lars Hammar
The Last Journey is a Swedish documentary that tugs at the heartstrings while also offering moments of humor and poignancy. The film follows Filip Hammar as he embarks on a heartfelt attempt to reconnect with his aging father, Lars, through a road trip that promises to be a life-affirming adventure. The premise suggests a journey filled with nostalgia, bonding, and personal growth, yet the execution ultimately leaves much to be desired.
The Strengths: A Beautiful Father-Son Dynamic
One of the movie’s strongest elements is the genuine and touching relationship between Filip and his father. Their interactions feel authentic and unfiltered, making it easy for viewers to relate to their emotional struggles and moments of joy. The sincerity in their connection shines through, and the film captures some truly moving moments, especially in the latter part of the journey. The cinematography also deserves a mention, as the stunning landscapes of the South of France provide a picturesque backdrop for what could have been an engaging adventure.
The Weaknesses: A Slow and Misleading Narrative
Despite its heartwarming premise, The Last Journey is ultimately hindered by its pacing and structure. The first half of the movie is bogged down by an extended focus on Lars’ hospital stay, which delays the anticipated road trip and diminishes the excitement promised by the title. The film spends too much time in an environment that contradicts the very idea of a journey, making it feel like the adventure never truly begins. Instead of an exploration of past memories and lively experiences, much of the runtime is consumed by stationary moments that, while emotionally significant, fail to engage the audience in the way a road trip film typically should.
A Strong Finish, But Is It Enough?
The last 20 minutes of The Last Journey finally deliver on the film’s promise. As father and son set off on their long-overdue trip, we see glimpses of what the entire film could have been—a touching and reflective journey filled with humor, warmth, and personal discovery. The interactions in this final stretch are undeniably touching, bringing the film to a satisfying conclusion. However, it begs the question: why did it take so long to get there?
Final Verdict
While The Last Journey boasts a heartfelt core and beautiful cinematography, it struggles with pacing and fails to fully capitalize on its promising premise. Had the focus been more on the road trip experience and less on the slow build-up, it could have been a far more compelling watch. Instead, much of the film feels static, making it difficult to stay engaged until the emotional payoff at the end. If you have the patience for a slow burn and appreciate intimate family dynamics, you may still find moments to cherish. However, for those looking for a truly engaging road trip film, this one may not be the journey they were hoping for.
Rating
Aaron: 4 / 10 “heartfelt but not the journey I hoped for
Zak: 1 / 10 “great connection between father and son but just plain boring“
Cinema Experience:
Palace Cinemas offers a higher end of cinema experiences with a more luxurious city centre location and atmosphere. Staff are friendly and provided free snacks and drinks to movie goers. Excellent sound and seating.
There were no ushers when I arrived and an event was happening within the cinema so I joined in. Turned out this was not for the movie I was seeing. No staff at all to direct people to the premiere screening or in fact to any movie.
Viewed at Palace Cinemas, Raine Square, Perth
Media Release – Universal
Link to Universal HERE
TV Central Movie Reviews HERE
MOVIE REVIEW | The Last Journey
