#REVIEW: “A WALK IN THE WOODS”

Review by Jonathan Godfrey for Mr. Will Wong

Bill Bryson is a beloved American author known for his amusing adventure books. One in particular, A Walk in the Woods, recalls his attempt at tackling the Appalachian Trail with his friend Stephan Katz.

A Walk in the Woods is now a Film starring Robert Redford as Bill Bryson, and Nick Nolte as Stephan Katz. Like the book, the film follows the same path with anecdotes and insights about it along the way. The Appalachian Trail is an incredible American resource. Measuring over two-thousand miles in length, the trail traverses fourteen states while weaving its way through the mountains it takes its name from.

Bill, in an effort to enliven his elder years, proclaims he will tackle the trail at the onset of the film. His wife Catherine (Emma Thompson), informs him that if he intends to do the impossible he won’t be doing it alone. Enter Stephan Katz, Bill’s long lost friend with a penchant for unsettling people. Together the two set out on their aforementioned quest; a quest that next to no one ever completes. Guest stars like Nick Offerman, Kristen Schaal and Mary Steenburgen help the odd couple in their effort… and they need all the help they can get.

Angry hillbillies, hungry bears, and the throes of Mother Nature seek to thwart Bill & Stephan from accomplishing their task. Epiphanies on life and picturesque scenery appear to reward them whenever it gets too tough. All-in-all it’s an endearing film about the beauties of life. That though life is temporary it is nevertheless here to be both endured and appreciated. For those looking for a laugh with a little enlightenment, this is the one for you.