This is some wannabe's wet dream about being a baseball player ... obviously he didn't make it and neither does this film ... its only watchable because playmate of the year 1992, corinna harney is in it ... otherwise don't waste your time
27 Reviews
Yeeecccch !
dslacker21 June 2003
This coming-of-age, romance, baseball story has every smaltzy, sentimental, semi-mental, feel bad, feel good cliche that ever graced a 50's big studio or Disney flick. There isn't one original scene, situation, or piece of dialogue in the whole movie. To make it worse, every point made on the screen is hammered home immediately afterward by having a character tell us what we just saw. The acting is nearly as bad as the screenplay. How is 104 minutes of unlikeable characters whining, crying, and refusing to act with any intelligence supposed to entertain or enlighten us?
I thought they didn't make them like this any more; unfortunately, sometimes they still do. If "The Natural" is a home run into the light towers, then "The Road Home" is a dribbler to first base.
I thought they didn't make them like this any more; unfortunately, sometimes they still do. If "The Natural" is a home run into the light towers, then "The Road Home" is a dribbler to first base.
Okay.....
NinetyEighty14 March 2013
Well...Nice to know some people appreciate it, in that case it doesn't matter what someone says, it was worth it for them. I was so-so. It is a decent and cute idea, I didn't find it too cliché like some supposedly said, and I don't mind too much if it was, if done right...I don't know much about baseball to keep this movie in check on facts so I can't/won't discuss that. I just didn't feel that much chemistry between the lead actors. The progression of the story to me spent little time in the childhood and connection of the characters to really understand why he loved her so much, besides that he just never tried to find anyone else. At it's core it is a humble story which makes it nice and not trying too hard, but then I feel they could've done just a bit more. It's reminiscent of Forrest Gump if no one minds that comparison, but not by any means as good. I say if it's good to you,just ignore other people and if you hated it, go ahead. I never see a problem with people who can appreciate something for what it is. But I guess my tastes just didn't match....
lol at all the fake reviews here!
georgewbinladen25 June 2009
this movie was terrible. i only purchased it because corinna harney is in it, but she doesn't even get naked!!! it always makes me laugh to see an indie movie like this with like 10 pages of glowing reviews- way to get your family involved, director guy!!
anyway, the fact that baseball is the main storyline will quickly be forgotten here as the scenes involving baseball are strange and unfitting, seemingly edited very poorly or having little or nothing to do with actual baseball. corinna looks hot in it, but i honestly am mad at myself for buying this off of amazon, even though i only spent $1. 1/10
anyway, the fact that baseball is the main storyline will quickly be forgotten here as the scenes involving baseball are strange and unfitting, seemingly edited very poorly or having little or nothing to do with actual baseball. corinna looks hot in it, but i honestly am mad at myself for buying this off of amazon, even though i only spent $1. 1/10
The Funniest Movie I've Seen this Year (except its not a comedy)
siempre3486 December 2005
I was going to give this a 4 but it gets a 10. Its hilarious! I got a feeling Drew Johnson (who starred, wrote and directed this film) is a big baseball fan. Assuming this is true, he should know better than this. I understand this is a chick-flick but to appeal to the male audience there needs to be some accuracy here. This movie is definitely not BULL DURHAM. PITCHER AND THE PINUP falls flat. Everything with baseball in this movie made me laugh. The sports clichés, stadium inaccuracies, and actors who don't look like ball-players make thishilarious. Among the the absurd highlights: -- "But coach, (I can't play third) I've pitched EVERY GAME this year!" -- The gypsy/scout who foretells the future with his deck of cards. -- The can't miss Major Leaguer who can't hit balls thrown at a speed meant for a 4-yr-old with a giant plastic red bat until he learns a poem to help him with his hitting. -- The star going AWOL for two weeks and being allowed back by a sympathetic manager because of a "woman." -- The best friend being offered a contract and a spot on the team after the manager sees him playing catch. No hitting, No workout, No interview. Just catch. -- "Congratulations on your 15 strikeouts and your 4 for 4 with a home run."
Basically, this movie is absurd, yet hilarious. You will only like this movie of you are female. If you are a real guy you will fine this funny.
My other gripes: -- Borrowed love story of Forrest Gump -- Why in the world was she always saying "I love this country?" Was she an immigrant? I guess so because she grew up in Vegas. -- Flashback overload. Enough of the Star Wars and Farrah Fawcett Tshirts. Also, if you use historical events to timeframe, use something astronomical, not the obscure highjacking of a cruise ship. My favorite timeframe placing was when one character goes, "Man, it is 1988!"
In the end, this movie HILARIOUS. Cheesy lines, bad casting, horrible acting, and inaccuracies ... Great for a laugh, I'm buying the DVD!
Basically, this movie is absurd, yet hilarious. You will only like this movie of you are female. If you are a real guy you will fine this funny.
My other gripes: -- Borrowed love story of Forrest Gump -- Why in the world was she always saying "I love this country?" Was she an immigrant? I guess so because she grew up in Vegas. -- Flashback overload. Enough of the Star Wars and Farrah Fawcett Tshirts. Also, if you use historical events to timeframe, use something astronomical, not the obscure highjacking of a cruise ship. My favorite timeframe placing was when one character goes, "Man, it is 1988!"
In the end, this movie HILARIOUS. Cheesy lines, bad casting, horrible acting, and inaccuracies ... Great for a laugh, I'm buying the DVD!
Wholesome film, low budget, but very moving
paul-8472 July 2003
I really enjoyed the film. I review 3 or 4 films per week and simply base my critiques, on the way they make me feel. I was recently at a film festival at the Palms in Vegas and watched 3 different films. I felt this film was probably somewhat based on a true story, and that the people behind the film put alot of heart into it. Great film and I recommend it for families.
Yessssss!!!! A Diamond Discovery
JOSABURROWS24 June 2003
This film is not for the jaded or the cranky film geeks that shriek whenever they see a mainstream independent movie about love and difficult emotions, and then go on to dismiss it as unoriginal or cliche. It is the filmmakers responsibility to please an audience with honest emotions, good or bad. If you don't like the way the characters act then take a look in the mirror and when do we ever like every character in a movie? In this movie most of the characters are redeeming, that's what matters. Some people can't deal with love and that's exactly what this movie is about. The characters in this film represent who we are, we get upset, we do cry out, we do make stupid decisions! There is no drama without those elements. It's our final decision that counts. This movie is about hope and reconciliation. It's tied together so well, it just made sense, I've been one of those characters and maybe that's why I connected so well with it. I mean I love this movie. It's crafted in a beautiful and moving way, so what if it's totally unoriginal so what if it's schmaltzy, it's good "American Corn." Audiences will love this movie. The use of baseball in the film is manifested in a brilliant way as it fuels the story within the characters intersecting lives. It's a completely original way of using baseball as a metaphor for who we are. It's not your typical feel good movie, it pays great attention to detail and the acting is very good. It's the first truly independent film I've seen with heart. To use a cliche proudly, The Road Home.
This film is a "10"
tburketina3 July 2003
I saw "The Road Home" more than a year ago, and the film, its themes, and its content, have stayed with me. This movie moved me deeply, and there are times I still think of it fondly. It had moments of intense humor, and moments of deep sadness. The emotional roller-coaster this movie put me on was one very few films can achieve, let alone sustain throughout the length of the movie. "The Road Home" is a movie that should be seen by masses. It is an exceptional film, one that deserves to be shown to the public at large. Drew Johnson has the markings of a major-league film-maker and with this movie he hits one out of the park!
A wonderful romance that touches the heart.
phunky_Gurl0331 March 2003
I have been to Sundance, Toronto, Venice, to name a few, and of all the independent films that I have seen (and I have seen lots!) I have yet to see a film with such heart. It's not a new story, but it captures the feeling of a first love in a way that is hard to not be moved. Although not the esoteric film that we usually see in the independent circuit, it is so well done that I looked beyond its minor flaws. Lovely film.
Excellent Film
mrjeffrivera7 March 2003
This film has a lot of heart in it, with excellent performances. It's clear these lead actors will be huge stars one day, especially the female lead Corinna Jones. The cinematography is simple and beautiful like the film. Why aren't there more films like this? I can't wait to see it again.
Great movie with a heart
acorn-610 January 2003
The Road Home is a delightful coming of age film that has just the right mixture of romance and baseball. What an accomplishment for this first time director! The cinematography was beautiful and the original score is something the behold. I think we can expect a lot more from Drew Johnson and his crew in the years to come.
Heart warming sports story about coming of age, love, friends, and overcoming life's tragedies.
jackp-327 September 2002
I had the great fortune to watch the full-length version of this movie at a Hollywood screening. I am glad to see that it has been edited as the original dragged on just a bit though it did have good flow. My gauge was through my eleven year-old son who joined me for the screening as he is a baseball nut. Not only did he make it through but he couldn't stop talking about the movie for days on end. I think every kid in his elementary school is waiting for this to come out and with good reason.
A great family value movie with enough of a love story to hold the teenage to mid-twenty something crowd. There are enough feel-good moments to hold adults and seniors.
I would like to see this movie make it to the big screen. With a little promotion it would do well. Especially if it breaks out either just after the World's Series 2002 or early 2003 opening of the MLB season.
A great family value movie with enough of a love story to hold the teenage to mid-twenty something crowd. There are enough feel-good moments to hold adults and seniors.
I would like to see this movie make it to the big screen. With a little promotion it would do well. Especially if it breaks out either just after the World's Series 2002 or early 2003 opening of the MLB season.
The best purely independent directorial debut in recent memory
reeleone24 June 2003
This film captures the spirit of America's official pastime, baseball and America's real pastime, romance and combines the two in a seamless, engaging and heartfelt manner. I entered the theatre with guarded optimism knowing this was the feature directorial debut for writer/director Johnson. I left the theatre very pleasantly surprised. This young filmmaker accomplished far more with fewer resources than most seasoned pro's accomplish with far more. But Johnson has succeeded in creating much more than a mere calling card. This film succeeds on it's own merits and deserves to be seen and to live on. A bit longish in spots, the engaging mood will cause all but the most jaded cynic to overlook this fact and give this gem the praise it so richly deserves.
A love story where we can find a piece of ourselves in.
blinddp20 April 2003
A universal story based on so many peoples lives, their first love, life experiences, growing up and most importantly discovering who loves them the most. It's about being young and feeling all those wonderful undiscovered feeling that we all humans feel for the first time. It's joyous to watch and reminisent about your own life as well as experiencing those moments one more time. After all we only live once.
This is not just a great 1st film, but a "great" film.
sparklela27 September 2002
The best part about his movie for me is the story. I love how these characters are so real, how they change, it's really touching. I love the photography, the soundtrack and the simple true story that was told. Negative commentary about it for me is hard to do, because the choices the characters made in this film aren't always good ones, but it's what the character would do in real life. There's subtle moments and connections in this film that you might miss if you're mind drifts, but it all ties up so lovely and it gives us hope for our own lives. Many of the comments that I got from others was, they lived that, they can relate. I can say no more except that I was deeply touched by the sincerity of this film. Drew Johnson's heart is up on the screen and it's something we need right now in American Cinema.
A passionate film driven by fate!
madsun552522 January 2003
This is a strong indie that I would recommend to anyone who has experienced love and loss and to those who still hope for that tiny sense of magic in life. The director has made a very passionate film about fate and the cards we are dealt in life. Bravo and many congrats to the forces that combined to make such a deeply personal and sensitive film!!!
Wonderfully Intense
stephanie-457 July 2003
I found this movie intense in a way I can't seem to find anymore. Too often, I find myself dosing off in the middle of the latest block buster only to wake up grateful that I missed it after hearing the disappointment experienced by those who stayed awake. This movie had characters that pulled me in and made me want to watch. I felt I knew them and had to know what happened to them. I laughed, cried and celebrated life's victories and cursed the curves as the plot took us through good times and bad. I smiled at the end when I realized that in the movie, as in life, we all end up exactly where we are meant to be, no matter how rough it can be getting there. The music also did an amazing job of being original and matching the mood/moment.
An absolutly wonderful first film
bonfire9924 September 2002
The difficulties of making a first film were apparently wiped away as Drew Johnson helmed this great story of a college baseball player and his quest for love. Watching this film was shocking as I thought about the fact that this was Johnson's first feature film. Johnson claims that he was blessed all the way during the process, and one couldn't agree more; blessed with a great story, an amazingly talented Director of Photography, darn good acting, and a soundtrack that slips under your skin and makes you teary-eyed more than once.
However, the film is difficult to enjoy due to poor writing. Although the characters are fleshed out well, exposition is done poorly. The key to this comes from the tiring narration and pointless flashbacks that should often be avoided by first timers. This becomes a crutch and an easy way out of dealing with backstory problems. And the constant clues as to time and place were redundant and forced. This is a timeless story that works too hard to be a period film, specifically placed in the late 70s to 90s. Dialogue was chock full of clichés that provoked pathetic, unwarranted laughter from audience members.
As hard as it becomes to watch, I couldn't help but still marvel at how well the final outcome was, especially for a first film. Cinematographer Doug Glover did an amazing job, creating some beautiful scenes with his long lenses and short depths of field. He has come out of film school with all the skills of a fine DP, one that I shall keep my eye on. And Johnson managed to tackle a difficult task of directing and staring in this film. The small flaws in the film might have been avoided had Johnson focused his talent. Yet you can't ding these newcomers for doing a sub-perfect job. The final product was done right, and I can't help but appreciate the fact that these guys did it. They wrestled with themselves and the odds, and got a very nice film made. I have no doubt that Drew Johnson will make another film, one where he can polish what he accomplished here. As close as this subject was to Johnson, it might prove difficult to find other subjects. However, I for one am looking forward to what the future holds for these talented young filmmakers.
A fine baseball film, a fine love story, and a great film for those who are interested in charting the rise of new talent in Hollywood. If you strive for a love story, watch this film for two reasons. Enjoy the onscreen love story, and relish in the off-screen love that Johnson clearly has for his film.
However, the film is difficult to enjoy due to poor writing. Although the characters are fleshed out well, exposition is done poorly. The key to this comes from the tiring narration and pointless flashbacks that should often be avoided by first timers. This becomes a crutch and an easy way out of dealing with backstory problems. And the constant clues as to time and place were redundant and forced. This is a timeless story that works too hard to be a period film, specifically placed in the late 70s to 90s. Dialogue was chock full of clichés that provoked pathetic, unwarranted laughter from audience members.
As hard as it becomes to watch, I couldn't help but still marvel at how well the final outcome was, especially for a first film. Cinematographer Doug Glover did an amazing job, creating some beautiful scenes with his long lenses and short depths of field. He has come out of film school with all the skills of a fine DP, one that I shall keep my eye on. And Johnson managed to tackle a difficult task of directing and staring in this film. The small flaws in the film might have been avoided had Johnson focused his talent. Yet you can't ding these newcomers for doing a sub-perfect job. The final product was done right, and I can't help but appreciate the fact that these guys did it. They wrestled with themselves and the odds, and got a very nice film made. I have no doubt that Drew Johnson will make another film, one where he can polish what he accomplished here. As close as this subject was to Johnson, it might prove difficult to find other subjects. However, I for one am looking forward to what the future holds for these talented young filmmakers.
A fine baseball film, a fine love story, and a great film for those who are interested in charting the rise of new talent in Hollywood. If you strive for a love story, watch this film for two reasons. Enjoy the onscreen love story, and relish in the off-screen love that Johnson clearly has for his film.
A slice of Americana
snowpea26025 June 2003
It's a tale that everyone can relate to, warms the soul and leaves you smiling. Strong performances by the lead actors maintain your interest as well as surprise appearances by Brimley and Saxton. I hope it gets the national attention is deserves.
A good movie with lots of baseball for the guys and romance for the girls.
markparrish2328 June 2003
Dreams can come true but they don't occur the way you thought they would. That sums this movie up for me. I recently saw this movie "The Road Home," in Vegas and I really enjoyed it. There was a couple of slow scenes but I still will tell my friends to go see it. If you love baseball you have to see this film. My girlfriend cried a couple of times, she got wrapped up in the love story.
Winning Hearts and Film Critics across America
Snoogie710 September 2004
Despite the few (mostly one) postings from people who clearly cannot get past their own inability to connect to a heartwarming film, for the official record I would like to add a few quotes regarding THE ROAD HOME from some well known and well respected film critics:
"The Road Home is a bold and stylish drama from newcomer, Drew Johnson. A filmmaker with a creative eye that bristles with intelligence, charm and imagination!" ...Jeffrey K. Howard, The Movie Guys
"The Road Home is a captivating film worthy of your attention, a well-written little film with a big heart. In this year filled with endless sequels and big-budget explosions, watching The Road Home is like finding a hidden treasure. Simply put - this is a wonderful and thought-provoking movie. Don't miss the opportunity to see it!" ...Tony Toscano, Film Critic, Emmy-Winning host Talking Pictures
"An enjoyable movie that brings together America's two favorite past times, baseball and being in love" ...Greg Russell, Film Critic WDWB Detroit
"A superbly crafted film...One of this year's best romances." ...David Giammarco, Film Critic Toronto Star, Elle Magazine
"An impressive Independent feature...It has the look and feel of a studio picture." ...Playboy Magazine
"I just got back from the CineVegas film festival and I saw a great film, The Road Home!" ...Casey Smith, Anchor, KLAS, CBS affiliate, Las Vegas
"I Love this movie! It's not your typical movie about people from 'Vegas, in fact it's not your typical "feel good" movie either. It's a great film!" ...Heidi Harris, Host KXNT, 840AM Talk Radio, Las Vegas
It would appear that they "Yeeech" comment from one lone person is the odd voice out regarding the quality and enjoyability of this film. What a shame that currently it is the lead comment on a film with otherwise stellar reviews from what appears to be various festival goers over the two years. Too bad so much weight has been given to that one review when others, including seasoned and film-weary professional critics, obviously feel this is an independent film of note.
Takes all kinds I guess....
"The Road Home is a bold and stylish drama from newcomer, Drew Johnson. A filmmaker with a creative eye that bristles with intelligence, charm and imagination!" ...Jeffrey K. Howard, The Movie Guys
"The Road Home is a captivating film worthy of your attention, a well-written little film with a big heart. In this year filled with endless sequels and big-budget explosions, watching The Road Home is like finding a hidden treasure. Simply put - this is a wonderful and thought-provoking movie. Don't miss the opportunity to see it!" ...Tony Toscano, Film Critic, Emmy-Winning host Talking Pictures
"An enjoyable movie that brings together America's two favorite past times, baseball and being in love" ...Greg Russell, Film Critic WDWB Detroit
"A superbly crafted film...One of this year's best romances." ...David Giammarco, Film Critic Toronto Star, Elle Magazine
"An impressive Independent feature...It has the look and feel of a studio picture." ...Playboy Magazine
"I just got back from the CineVegas film festival and I saw a great film, The Road Home!" ...Casey Smith, Anchor, KLAS, CBS affiliate, Las Vegas
"I Love this movie! It's not your typical movie about people from 'Vegas, in fact it's not your typical "feel good" movie either. It's a great film!" ...Heidi Harris, Host KXNT, 840AM Talk Radio, Las Vegas
It would appear that they "Yeeech" comment from one lone person is the odd voice out regarding the quality and enjoyability of this film. What a shame that currently it is the lead comment on a film with otherwise stellar reviews from what appears to be various festival goers over the two years. Too bad so much weight has been given to that one review when others, including seasoned and film-weary professional critics, obviously feel this is an independent film of note.
Takes all kinds I guess....
Touched my heart as a movie hasn't done for a long time
gvakam27 June 2003
The movie portrayed to me, young love in it's purest form, lived unconditionally and with great courage. Too often people fail to love with such courage. They clutch at their hearts along with their pocket books and head for the door. I found myself feeling immense pride for this young man in his endeavor. We all know that too often in life things don't have a storybook ending but this one did and I enjoyed it. I loved the characters, the music, the settings and the humor injected. I would like to see more from these young people.
Behind the too-provocative title and cover is a lovely romance and a great baseball tale, too
inkblot118 August 2010
Danny (Drew Johnson) and Melissa (Corinna Harney) have been friends since childhood. Growing up in Las Vegas, they were each other's first "puppy loves", too. But, once they hit high school, Melissa started to go in one direction and Danny in another. For her part, Missy wanted to walk on the wild side with other guys and Danny was pursuing his lifelong dream of becoming a professional baseball player. Even so, they stayed in touch. However, when Melissa's mother died, her dad began drinking and, eventually, tried to beat her up. Therefore, she left town to live with an aunt and the two childhood pals could no longer communicate on a daily basis. As Danny inched closer to his dream, as a pitcher for an outstanding college baseball program, Missy got involved with a Swengali like young man who pushed her into modeling as a pin-up. But, Melissa came back to a long ago desire to become a teacher and a poet, trying to straighten out her mess of a life. Will the two "first loves" meet each other again? This is truly a very fine film encased in the wrong marketing package. With no real stars, the producers obviously felt they had to sensationalize their promotion of this flick. Hence, the risqué title and cover. Too bad, for some movie fans will dismiss it outright, as I almost did, which would be a shame. There is very little objectionable material but, instead, viewers will discover a sweet story of young people finding their way in life when cards are stacked against them. It is also a very good baseball story, telling it like it is in the world of professional sports. Then, too, themes of forgiveness and "tomorrow is another day" are front and center, always welcome lessons. Yes, the production was probably made on a lower budget and the sets, costumes and camera work are average, nothing more. But, with a heart-grabbing story and very good direction, most everyone will declare this movie to be a winner. If you like romance, baseball, or films that feature characters "overcoming odds", you will find this one swings for the fences and hits it out of the park, enjoyment wise.
Drew Johnson has a unique perspective on our national pastime...
paulnobrega-19 April 2003
As a filmmaker myself, I can honestly say we can continue to expect good things from Drew Johnson. The Road Home is an outstanding debut from this young director. The supporting cast is outstanding. And an often overlooked part of most films is the editing. Here the editing is particularly effective in telling the story. Check this one out!
Let me find my way home!
mrsil967 March 2003
What I really like about this storyline is it gives the viewer ideas of what to do if you happen to find yourself in this problem! I can't wait until this film is finally sold! I SEE MR. OSCAR IN YOUR FUTURE! This movie will make you cry and feel things that you have not felt in a long time. I sure wish I could have been a part of the crew, but I tell all my friends about this film! You just have to see it when it comes out! The behind the story is just as good as the film. You have to ask me about this. I had a chance to interview Corinna Harney and this is a story that you will never forget.
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