The Trip (2003)

Synopsis: In 1973, Alan Oakley, a 24 year old Republican journalist working for the Los Angeles Chronicle, has a promising future sure to make his military father proud. At the other end of the spectrum,... In 1973, Alan Oakley, a 24 year old Republican journalist working for the Los Angeles Chronicle, has a promising future sure to make his military father proud. At the other end of the spectrum, certain to strike shame into conservatives everywhere, is Tommy Ballenger, a 19 year old Texas native relocated to California to form OUT LOUD, a gay civil rights group. When a chance meeting brings these opposites together, the attraction is obvious to everyone except Alan, who is desperately trying to stick to the program. Stumbling all the way, the neurotic Alan falls in love and the two form a loving relationship. During Anita Bryant's 1977 nationwide homophobic "Save Our Children" campaign, a jealous older lawyer, Peter Baxter, orchestrates the publication of The Straight Truth, an anti-gay book Alan wrote before he met Tommy. The book becomes a best seller, destroys Tommy's credibility and causes their break-up. Alan seeks solace in Peter's arms, not knowing Peter is responsible for his heartbreak. By 1984, Alan has settled for a life with Peter, though Tommy is never far from his thoughts. When word arrives that Tommy wishes to see Alan, Alan's fey friend Michael, ex-girlfriend Beverly, and understanding, ex-Vegas showgirl mother Mary, persuade him to go after his true love. Reunited in Mexico, Alan and Tommy take the road trip Tommy always wanted but a series of unfortunate incidents have them running from the law. While racing towards Tommy's parents in Texas, Alan and Tommy must make up for lost years with the Federales hot on their tail. On this redemption journey, Alan finds the strength to finally be himself. -- © Falcon Lair Films [More]

Starring: Steve Braun, Larry Sullivan, Jill St. John, Ray Baker

Starring: Steve Braun, Larry Sullivan, Jill St. John, Ray Baker, Sirena Irwin, Julie Brown, Alexis Arquette

Director: Miles Swain

Director: Miles Swain
Screenwriter: Miles Swain
Composer: Steven Chesne
Studio: TLA Releasing

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