A Big Bold Beautiful Journey: A Disappointing Detour in Romantic Cinema

Introduction

Kogonada, known for his visually striking and emotionally resonant films like “Columbus” and “After Yang,” takes a misstep with his latest project, “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey.” This film, featuring Colin Farrell and Margot Robbie, attempts to blend romance, nostalgia, and fantasy but ultimately falls short, leaving audiences questioning its artistic direction. The film opens in theaters on September 19, 2025, but early reviews suggest it may not be the journey viewers were hoping for.

A Shift in Creative Roles

One of the first red flags for “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” is Kogonada’s lack of involvement in writing and editing, roles he previously held in his acclaimed works. Instead, the screenplay is penned by Seth Reiss, known for his work on “The Menu.” Critics have noted that the film feels like a departure from Kogonada’s signature style, which often emphasizes character depth and visual storytelling. The absence of his creative touch raises questions about the film’s coherence and emotional impact.

A Lackluster Premise

The film’s premise revolves around David (Colin Farrell) and Sarah (Margot Robbie), two strangers who meet at a wedding and are subsequently trapped in a sentient rental car. This vehicle takes them on a journey through their past, forcing them to confront formative moments in their lives. While the concept of revisiting memories is intriguing, the execution feels contrived and lacks the emotional weight necessary for a compelling narrative.

Clichéd Characters and Predictable Arcs

David and Sarah are presented as archetypal characters: David is a grieving man dealing with the recent loss of his father, while Sarah is a self-proclaimed serial cheater haunted by her mother’s death. Their backstories, while potentially rich, are presented in a superficial manner, reducing them to mere caricatures. The film’s attempts at humor and romance often fall flat, leaving viewers with a sense of detachment from the characters.

Visual Style and Production Design

The film’s visual aesthetic draws comparisons to the works of Jacques Demy, known for his vibrant color palettes and whimsical storytelling. However, the production design in “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” feels more like a commercial than a cohesive artistic vision. The costumes and settings, while colorful, lack the depth and nuance that Kogonada’s previous films have showcased. Critics have pointed out that the film’s style often overshadows its substance, leading to a disjointed viewing experience.

Musical Elements and Missed Opportunities

At one point, the film attempts to incorporate musical elements, allowing Farrell to showcase his singing and dancing skills. However, these moments feel forced and lack the charm that musical sequences typically bring to a film. The juxtaposition of lighthearted musical numbers with the characters’ heavy emotional baggage creates a tonal imbalance that detracts from the overall narrative.

A Journey Without Meaning

As David and Sarah navigate their pasts, they encounter significant moments, including breakups and personal losses. However, unlike films such as “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” where characters gain insights from revisiting their memories, David and Sarah seem to learn little from their experiences. Their journey feels more like a series of disconnected vignettes rather than a cohesive exploration of love and loss.

The Chemistry Gap

One of the most significant shortcomings of “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” is the lack of chemistry between Farrell and Robbie. Their performances, while individually commendable, fail to ignite any sparks on screen. This absence of connection makes it difficult for audiences to invest in their relationship, further diminishing the film’s emotional impact.

A Missed Opportunity for Kogonada

Kogonada’s previous films have been celebrated for their introspective storytelling and visual artistry. However, “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” feels like a departure from his strengths. Critics argue that the film lacks the personal stamp that has defined his work, resulting in a project that feels more like a commercial endeavor than a genuine artistic expression. The screenplay, which was a Black List find, appears to have undergone insufficient revisions, leading to a diluted narrative that fails to resonate.

Cinematic Choices and Product Placement

The cinematography, handled by Benjamin Loeb, often resembles a cheerful advertisement rather than a thoughtful exploration of the characters’ emotional landscapes. Additionally, the film’s reliance on product placement, particularly with fast-food chains, detracts from its romantic aspirations. Such choices contribute to a sense of artificiality that permeates the film.

Conclusion

“A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” ultimately struggles to find its footing as a romantic film. While it attempts to explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, the execution falls short, leaving audiences with a sense of disappointment. Kogonada’s departure from his usual creative roles, combined with a lackluster script and uninspired performances, results in a film that feels more like a missed opportunity than a bold artistic statement. As the film prepares for its theatrical release, it remains to be seen whether audiences will embrace this journey or view it as a detour in Kogonada’s promising career.