There's just something about "road trip" movies. There's also something about "coming of age" films. Take those two somethings and add some very good acting, a fun but thought provoking script and a defective parachute. Now you have Fandago.

Directed by Kevin Reynolds, Fandago is the expanded version of his grad-school film, "PROOF", about 5 college friends facing the decisions and uncertainties of "real life".

Set in the early seventies, the uncertainties expand to include the Vietnam draft for these young "groovers".
They decide to have one last youthful fling before moving on to the harsh reality of adulthood, so just before graduation they take off on a road trip across Texas. The usual, and some pretty unusual hijinks ensue, lending just enough laughs to what I feel is a predominantly dramatic film - though it's often labeled a comedy. It is funny in places, but the heart of this movie lies in the relationships and the interaction of the characters:

As Gardener Barnes, Kevin Costner (Dances with Wolves, No Way Out) is charismatic as a fun loving, free spirit. He is bent on avoiding the draft by whatever means necessary, and tries to get the others dodge it as well. Gardener is fun, if irresponsible, and Costner gets to deliver the funniest comedic lines in this movie.

Judd Nelson may have given his best performance ever right out of the gate in his first starring role as Phil Hicks, the nerdy antithesis of his "Bender" character in The Breakfast Club. The two roles (Fandango's college grad filmed before The Breakfast Club's high school bad boy) capture the excellent range of this actor. (What happened, Judd?) Phil is no rule breaker, and intends to do what he thinks is right by serving his country.

Kenneth Waggoner, portrayed by Sam Robards (American Beauty), is being pulled in both directions and doesn't know what to do, but is more concerned about what to do with his love life. Having called off his wedding before they left, he is haunted by indecision and loss seen through dream sequences featuring Suzi Amis (The Usual Suspects).

Together with Dorman (Chuck Bush) and Lester (Brian Cesak) they head for the border, a buried secret and a good time, while reminiscing, interacting and facing their own personal demons.

The Soundtrack

I'd be remiss if I didn't include a little about the soundtrack. The diverse music is so well suited to the times, theme and individual scenes that it definitely influences the enjoyment of the film. Elton John (Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting) to Steppenwolf (Born to be Wild) to music from Pat Metheny And Lyle Mays, Cream, Classics IV, and more contribute heavily to the overall feel of the movie, right up to the outstanding , "Can't Find My Way Home", from Blind Faith.

Summary

I don't know why this movie bypassed most theaters when it was released. Fandango is a solid, enjoyable film that evokes a full range of emotions. It's not the best film I've ever seen, but it is the one of the best films too many people have never seen.


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Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: VHS
Video Occasion: Good for a Rainy Day
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older