Written and directed by Sofia Alvarez who is known for having directed films such as To All The Boys I’ve Loved and To All The Boys: PS I Love You, Along For The Ride is her directorial debut that was also based on the novel Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen.
It was released in May 2022. Starring Emma Pasarow as Auden, Belmont Cameli as Eli, Kate Bosworth as Heidi (Auden’s mother-in-law), Dermot Mulroney (as Robert – Auden’s father) and Andie MacDowell as Victoria (Auden’s mother), Auden decides to spend a carefree summer with her father and mother in law before she joins college.
Life is all about discovering yourself and making all the necessary adjustments in life to do the same. On the first day that Auden arrives at the beachside town of Colby where her father lives, Heidi advises her to go explore the Tip – a very popular social hangout where all the youngsters spend their evenings. It is here that Auden begins to meet her new friends for the summer and begins to ‘unwind’. Even at the shop where she is to look after the receipts, she meets three jovial girls (who also happened to be at the Tip) to work with (Laura Kariuki as Maggie, Samia Finerty as Esther and Genevieve Hannelius as Leah)
Every night, Auden who is a loner and insomniac roams the streets. It is here that she keeps on mysteriously bumping into a BMXer- Eli (who also happens to be Maggie’s ex)
As Auden’s and Eli’s friendship deepens we are taken on a quest of events – known as the quest where they help Auden experience the fun, carefree teen life she never knew she wanted. Some of these adventures include a food fight, having a prom, a night swim, etc.
The movie is a jovial rom-com which is suitable for any age group and everyone likes a movie where you can just enjoy a light laugh, here and there.
By making use of the indie band – Beach House, the movie is full of hypnotic and dreamy songs.
Moreover, how surprising is it that Victoria (Auden’s mother) saves the day for Heidi (Auden’s mother-in-law) when it comes to sorting out a difference that she has with her husband (Victoria’s ex-husband)
The movie is an above-average film, especially for youngsters who experience a break before they venture into college life. A film full of friendships, relationships and family tribulations, the movie has a unique formula that is very appealing!
