Hit the Road (2021)

HIT THE ROAD by Iranian director Panah Panahi (who also wrote it) is about a boring family on a boring road trip across a boring landscape. Mum tries to laugh, but sometimes she can’t help the tears that run down her face. Meanwhile, in the back seat, Dad is nursing a broken leg and the youngest belts out car karaoke. The only quiet one is the older brother. The family is hit by one problem after another, but they just keep going. All these elements may make it sound like an interesting movie. But, while the cinematography is gorgeous, and the little boy, played by Rayan Sarlak, is a scene-stealer, the film feels long and slow. There’s no real plot or character development and for most of the movie, we have no idea what the purpose of the trip is which means the events on the trip a without context.

If you’re in the mood for a visually stunning but ultimately frustrating film, HIT THE ROAD might be for you. Otherwise, skip it.

(In cinemas in Australia – check your movie guide for your local show times.)