A Big Bold Beautiful Journey

If you're into romantic fantasy with a twist of introspection and a dash of whimsy, A Big Bold Beautiful Journey might just be your thing. Directed by Kogonada and written by Seth Reiss, this 2025 film stars Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell as Sarah and David—two strangers who meet at a wedding and end up on a surreal road trip that takes them through key moments from their pasts. Think of it as a mix between Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and a magical GPS-guided therapy session.

The story kicks off with David, whose car troubles lead him to a strange rental company offering only one model: a 1994 Saturn SL with a mysterious GPS. That GPS soon sends him on a journey that reunites him with Sarah, and together they travel through doors that transport them to emotionally charged memories—childhood homes, high school musicals, art museums, and more. Along the way, they confront past regrets, lost loves, and family wounds, all while navigating their growing connection.

The film leans heavily into its fantasy elements, with surreal settings and time-bending sequences that explore how our past shapes our present. It’s a visually rich and emotionally ambitious ride, with a score by Joe Hisaishi (his first for a Western film) and songs by Laufey and Mitski that add to the dreamy atmosphere.

That said, not everyone will be swept away. Critics were mixed, with some finding the film too slow, overly sentimental, or weighed down by its own concept. If you're looking for fast-paced action or a straightforward rom-com, this probably isn't for you. The dialogue can be heavy, and the emotional beats might feel a bit forced for some viewers. Also, the product placement (yes, there’s a Burger King moment) didn’t exactly win hearts.

But if you enjoy character-driven stories that blend romance with a touch of the fantastical, and you don’t mind a slower pace, A Big Bold Beautiful Journey offers a unique take on love, memory, and second chances. It’s not perfect, but it’s heartfelt—and sometimes, that’s enough to make the trip worthwhile.