"A Big Bold Beautiful Journey" is a 2025 romantic fantasy film directed by Kogonada, starring Margot Robbie as Sarah and Colin Farrell as David. The film follows two lonely strangers who meet at a wedding and embark on a magical journey through a metaphysical GPS device that transports them into pivotal moments of their pasts. This journey allows them to revisit and possibly alter their future with a mix of romance, fantasy, and emotional reflection.
Plot Summary
David and Sarah start as guarded individuals meeting at a wedding, but the GPS in David's car invites them on a "big bold beautiful journey." They visit meaningful places and times from their pasts, from a lighthouse museum to David’s high school and a Parisian painting, finally exploring significant emotional moments like Sarah saying goodbye to her deceased mother. The journey culminates with a glimpse into their future married life, leaving them with a choice to continue their relationship in reality or part ways.
Themes and Style
The film explores themes of grief, loss, memory, and human connection with a tone described as magical, romantic, and light despite touching on darker emotional themes. The narrative structure has been likened to a Dickensian tale, with a whimsical but potent emotional arc. The film's style is noted for its poetic minimalism and surreal storytelling, blending magical realism and heartfelt drama.
Critical and Audience Reception
While the screenplay has been praised for its originality and inventive narrative approach, some critiques mention a "try-hard" style in the script and a sense of the writer's efforts being too overt. The lead performances by Robbie and Farrell are highlighted for strong chemistry and compelling portrayals of complex characters. The film is anticipated with both critical curiosity and audience excitement but awaits broader review.
Additional Notes
- The film marks notable contributions such as Joe Hisaishi's debut score for an American feature.
- It was released in UK cinemas on September 19, 2025, and features supporting actors like Kevin Kline and Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
This review captures the essence of "A Big Bold Beautiful Journey," presenting it as a thought-provoking romantic fantasy about rediscovery and emotional healing through an imaginative cinematic journey.
