Hollywood to Dollywood

Hollywood to Dollywood is an enchanting 2011 road trip documentary movie that cleverly interweaves a tapestry of courage, self-discovery, and the perseverance of twin brothers, Gary and Larry Lane, in their quest to deliver a script to the queen of country music, Dolly Parton. The film emerged as an honouring testament to the power of dreams and the significance of home, making a compelling watch filled with a blend of laughter, tears, awe, and jubilation.

The documentary, directed by John Lavin, begins in Hollywood, the hustling-bustling hub of entertainment where the twins Gary and Larry Lane reside. They have a dream, a screenplay called "Full Circle," intricately intertwined with the humble beginnings of Dolly Parton. With the script as their unique pilgrim’s progress, the brothers decide to take a daring trip from California to Tennessee to present their script to their idol at Dollywood's 25th-anniversary event.

The narrative unfolds as a combination of both a touching tribute to Dolly Parton and an intimate peek into the hardships the Lanes have faced as identical twins from rural North Carolina. As openly gay men, they have battled societal prejudice draw parallels to Dolly Parton's journey against typecasting and societal stereotypes, strengthening their connection to her.

The cast includes Chad Allen, Dustin Lance Black, Michael Bowen, and Leslie Jordan, and of course, the aforementioned Lane brothers. Their journey is accompanied by the narration of a star-studded ensemble, including nine-time Emmy nominee Chad Allen, Oscar-winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black (Milk), Emmy-winning actor Leslie Jordan, and actor-director Michael Bowen, among others. The inclusion of such celebrities amplifies the spirit of the journey, adding varied perspectives and a touch of Hollywood glamour.

What elevates the appeal of Hollywood to Dollywood beyond an ordinary road movie is it’s raw realism, light-hearted humor, and emotional narrative. As the twins' RV, named "Jolene," travels more than 2,500 miles across America, from its lively local parades to eye-pleasing panoramic landscapes, the film captures an authentic slice of life in diverse backgrounds. This unpredictable road trip allows the twins and viewers to engage with a plethora of communities and lifestyles, each adding hues to the mosaic of the country’s cultural heritage that mirrors the resilient spirit of Dollywood's benevolent queen.

While traversing the length of the country, the film is interspersed with the Lane brothers’ poignant memories. From touching upon their not-so-easy childhood in the conservative South, religious bigotry, and their mother's struggle with illness, to their journey of acceptance and coming out, this trip traverses through the contours of their heart and soul. It unearths them as two human beings who simply wish to realize their dreams while staying true to themselves.

The story's strongest emotional undercurrent is the brothers’ profound admiration for Dolly Parton. They see her as an inspirational figure who defied norms, broke barriers and emerged successful while maintaining her distinctive essence. The documentary is generously peppered with Dolly's music, underpinning a concert-like atmosphere throughout the journey. From the fervor of booty-shaking country tunes to the poignancy of ballads that bring tears, music becomes a resilient character in the narrative, binding scenes, stories, and emotions together.

Hollywood to Dollywood is more than just a pilgrimage of fan adoration; it resonates as a powerful tale of perseverance and acceptance. The film subtly but effectively calls for embracing diversity and defying prescribed norms, much like Dolly Parton herself. Through this deep and emotional journey, one truly gets to appreciate the power of dreams and the persisting human spirit that can overcome any challenge.

To sum up, Hollywood to Dollywood is an embodiment of a heartfelt tribute, an insightful journey, and an audacious dream of two brothers. The queen of country music, Dolly Parton, serves as a beacon of inspiration for this journey presented within the vibrant hues of an enchanting documentary. Not just for Dolly Parton fans or followers of the Lane Brothers, this film is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates narratives of resilience, defiance, and dreams.