Certainly not a slick or glossy film, (some will watch the first 15 minutes and maybe wonder if they are watching a school project) it is never the less a well layered, and warmly human story, with many fine moments, and a fascinating early 1970s Toronto backdrop. Essentially, it's about two young men from Nova Scotia trying to make a go of things in Toronto. Joey is not seeking anything more then an oppurtunity to make a decent paycheck, and find someone to marry. Pete on the other hand provides the more textured character. Though as every bit uneducated, and maybe uncultured as Joey, he somehow has come to believe thst he is meant for greater things. The scenes having to do with his feeble attempts at trying to rise above, provide some of the more subtler, and sadder moments in the movie. My one and only complaint with the film is what feels like an (unnecessary) plot device near the end where the two friends decide to steal some groceries, and end up seriously injuring a store clerk. I would have much preferred a less dramatic finale. But the scene is not enough in my opinion, to diminish the enjoyment I got from the rest of the movie. This my friends, is a true Canadian classic!
Review of Goin' Down the Road
Goin' Down the Road
(1970)
Not Slick Or Glossy, But A Well Layered And Warmly Human Story
30 May 2020
Warning: Spoilers