Tripping Forward, a profanity laced and drug induced comedy, proves to be a nice little "diamond in the rough". Sure the film has a few flaws that are typical of a movie made for less than a million dollars (not to mention what appears to be a total lack of a marketing campaign) and the constant profanity may turn some off as well but in the end the film has enough simplistic charm, stylized cinematography, witty dialog, and a quick enough pace to be more than likable. **SPOILER ALERT** Two buddies (one a frustrated actor, the other a failed musician) struggling to make ends meet take drastic actions to pay their bills by selling cocaine at an enormous profit. **END OF SPOILER** It actually seems like two movies. The first half is more character driven and the humor is a little esoteric to the "Hollywood crowd". The second half is more plot driven and the humor broadens out enough to be more appreciated by the general public (non-Hollywood types). William Gregory Lee is good for a few laughs as the crazed, coked up goofball roomie and Ed Begley Jr. is devilishly delightful as an eccentric acting coach. While most of the other characters that come in and out of this film are also a bit "over the top", ultimately the grounded, understated performance by Chris Fogelman gives Tripping Forward its heart. His acting chops are especially on display in the second half where he carries this movie to the finish line. It's a quick, fun little stylized film that doesn't meander or take itself too seriously and with some genuine laugh-out loud moments. A 90 minute party headed for cult status? I think so.
8 out of 10....
8 out of 10....
