Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far on Foot

Parental Rating: R

Contains: Language    Nudity    Sex    Adult Content    

Jill's Review

Opens July 20, 2018

Runs 113 minutes

John Callahan (Joaquin Phoenix) has been a raging alcoholic from a very young age. He drinks to cover his pain, mostly from the fact that he was abandoned by his mother as a baby. When a tragic drunk driving accident leaves him a quadraplegic, he really falls into despair. With the help of his girlfriend Annu (Rooney Mara) and his Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor Donnie (Jonah Hill), John slowly crawls out of his addiction. He soon discovers that he has an artistic talent. As he works through his 12 steps, he begins drawing cartoons. The cartoons are irreverent, funny and often offensive but soon he has amassed quite a national folllowing. And, this gives John a reason to live. Based on a true story, this is a  sad but uplifting tale of a tragic figure who discovers the healing power of art and the 12-step process.

I really liked this film. The Husband liked it but had a slight issue with the fact that the story was non-linear. It jumps around between John's non-sober and his sober days. I didn't have an issue with that but just know that it does flip back and forth between his younger days, his first days as a quadraplegic and his sober days. Joaquin Phoenix is really good as John Callahan. You don't always like him but you sympathize with his pain. And, you are very glad that he was able to get sober. Jonah Hill as his sponsor was great. He plays a kind of 12-step guru and he does a fantastic job. Especially, whan he finally reveals what helps him stay sober. Jack Black as Dexter plays a major role in John's life. He is good in this role. This movie is sad and tragic. It will bring you to tears several times. But, it is also uplifting. Well worth seeing so go see it.

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