Cinepocalypse 2018: HEAVY TRIP Review – Heavy Passion and Heavy Laughs
Starring Torstein Bjokrlund, Antii Heikkinen, Ville Hilska
Written by Juuso Laatio, Aleksi Puranen
Directed by Juuso Laatio, Jukka Vidgren
Heavy Trip (Hevi Reissu) is a Finnish directorial debut for metal heads and fans of comedy alike. While there are other movies involving heavy metal (e.g., Metalhead & The Devil’s Candy), Heavy Trip is a true love letter to fans of the music. Taking place in Finland, the plot follows a group of friends in a band preparing for a festival in Norway. But when a lie begins unravel their plans, they have to find a way to stay afloat amid the challenges. As part of Chicago’s Cinepocalypse Festival, this comedic heavy metal road trip a must-see experience.
Off the bat Heavy Trip captures the excitement and passion that comes from playing in a band. The main component that keeps the film interesting throughout is just how likeable its main characters are. They are all young dudes with their own individual sense of humor and love for metal. The dialogue in particular will strike a chord with any metal head. Fans of the music will relate to the numerous conversations about band names, riffs, and blast beats.
The plot is full of humorous moments as the guys prepare for their big show. One scene has them taking a band photo by having some of the members pose in front of a speed camera, while another member speeds by in a van setting off the camera. It’s a goofy moment that only a metal band could dream up. There’s another scene where they are buying said van and learn about all the accidents that have taken place with it. This ends up exciting the guys, calling them to purchase it for its sheer brutality.
These comedic moments pace themselves throughout the film and are never overplayed. While they are hilarious to watch, each of these scenes feels sincere. Even if the band is in the midst of a wacky situation, it fits right in with the story. Given that we understand everyone’s personality, it makes sense for them to find themselves in the predicaments that arise. The film also does a great job capturing that sense of young adventure. There’s a terrific element of nostalgia that reminds you what it was like to be part of a friend group and having fun.
Heavy Trip is a stellar collection of laughs and excitement, all in thanks to its writing and characters. It’s practically impossible to not love these dudes as they continue play the music they love.
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Heavy Trip
Summary
Heavy Trip is an excellent blend of comedy, heavy metal, and young nostalgia that will have viewers laughing and head banging all the way through the credits.
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