The Best Bar in America

The Best Bar in America is a captivating and deeply emotive indie film from 2009, featuring the talents of David Ackroyd, John Ansotegui, and Gregory T. Collett. Set against the significant and, often underappreciated, backdrop of America's picturesque wilderness, the story untangles itself within myriad rustic bars and pubs, establishing a unique narrative perspective that significantly contributes to the cinema of the American West.

At the center of this compelling story is Sanders (David Ackroyd), a man who, ridden with life’s uncertainties and disillusionment, embarks on a journey that combines his passion for motorbikes, whiskey, and storytelling. Sanders, a determined and charismatic character, is seen taking on the role of a modern-day philosopher, traversing desolate landscapes on his sidecar motorcycle in pursuit of writing a guidebook about the best bars across several states.

His decision to use bars as the focal point in his guidebook is not without reason. Sanders believes that bars, with their diverse range of patrons, serve as reliable vessels of local culture, history, and stories, and his interactions within these environments serve as the main catalyst for most of the film's poignant moments.

Alongside Sanders is his companion, Northway (John Ansotegui), a metaphorical embodiment of the 'wandering spirit,' who enhances Sanders' journey with his unique insights and camaraderie. Their friendly banter, philosophical debates, and shared moments of silence underline two men’s exploration of life, ethos, and purpose.

Directorial duo Damon Ristau and Eric Ristau leverages these vivid characters to tell a story that, while it may seem simple on the surface, deals with intricate themes of life, relationships, and the human condition. The screenplay, written by Jeremy R. Jansen and David Ackroyd, is meticulously crafted, filled with engaging dialogues and reflective monologues. An underlying blend of humor, wit and raw authenticity makes the film a compelling watch.

The film does not shy away from exploring the rugged beauty of the American West, making ample use of sweeping landscapes, open skies, and rustic establishments to elevate the journey of its protagonists aesthetically. Cinematographer Eric Ristau does an outstanding job of capturing the light and shadow of the sweeping landscapes, effectively marrying the splendor of the natural world with the intricate emotional threads of the narrative.

The Best Bar in America is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The film cleverly embodies the timeless adage that 'it's about the journey, not the destination’ in every film frame. Each bar Sanders and Northway enter, they encounter a new story, meet different people, each unique yet ostensibly familiar, reflecting the unified human experience across diverse lifestyles and choices. The people they meet, the tales they hear, and the experiences they document gradually shape their understanding of life and influence their introspection.

Audiences looking for an action-packed adventure may find the pace mellow, but those yearning for a thoughtful exploration of lives, relationships, and the essence of the journey will find it deeply resonant. With excellent performances from the lead actors and a brilliant supporting cast coupled with the sincere storytelling, The Best Bar in America provides a truly immersive cinematic experience. Also, at its core, the film carries a potent commentary on the importance of stories and shared experiences in the human journey.

The sound design and music lend an extra layer to the film’s narrative, resonating the storyline’s atmosphere and emotions. Embracing a variety of genres, from blues and folk to rock, the music score effectively sets the tone for various scenes, making the journey melodious and rhythmically alive.

Overall, The Best Bar in America is a must-watch for cinema buffs who appreciate offbeat films that delve into life's complexities alongside exploring tangible landscapes. The narrative's simplicity, combined with its emotive strength, makes the film a compelling cinematic experience that provokes introspection while taking viewers on a scenic journey through America's heartlands. This poignant, humanist narrative proves that sometimes the journey's simplest tales are the most profound.