The Journey Is the Destination

The Journey Is the Destination is a compelling 2016 biographical film based on the exceptional life of Dan Eldon, an artist, activist, and photojournalist, played by Ben Schnetzer. Directed by Bronwen Hughes, the movie was inspired by the journals of Eldon and portrays a young man who devoted his life to creativity, compassion, unity, and world change.

In addition to Shinezer's inspiring performance, the film features a stellar ensemble cast including Kelly Macdonald as Katherine Eldon, Dan's mother, and Sam Hazeldine in the role of Mike Eldon, his father. These exceptional actors bring depth and authenticity to the story, showing the crucial role that love and family support played in shaping Dan's remarkable journey.

The film opens by capturing the curiosity and sense of adventure that Eldon reveals in his early years, born and raised in Britain but eventually migrating to Africa with his family. The vibrant lens of Shakira Kibirige, the film's cinematographer, captures the beauty and spirit of Africa, showing us the place that fired Dan's imagination and became part of his identity.

In Schnetzer's Eldon, we see an unbridled spirit whose passion for art, curiosity about different cultures, and thirst for adventure drive him to conduct himself like an open book. The way Eldon absorbs the world around him is noticeably seen in his fascination for art and journals. The film showcases his artwork and journal entries, a visual testament to his unique perspective on life and world events as his experiences get richer and more diverse.

Kelly Macdonald turns in a well-rounded performance as Katherine Eldon, a woman of strength who nurtures her son's passion and spirit of adventure while also grappling with the apprehensions of a loving mother. She presents an unwavering and devoted maternal force, influencing Dan's optimism and resolve. Macdonald's portrayal creates a genuinely touching dynamic between mother and son, serving as an emotional focal point of the film.

Sam Hazeldine as Mike Eldon brings in appropriate counterbalance, portraying the sensible and cautious side of parenting. His portrayal provides a realistic depiction of a father's concerns, fears, and love, creating an emotional dichotomy between the adventurous son and the protective father, which adds depth to the family dynamics.

As a young adult, Dan translates his passion for art, empathy for disadvantaged communities, and love for Africa into a career in photojournalism. He becomes a photojournalist for Reuters, bringing the world's attention to the dire situations faced by people in parts of Africa. His daring journeys take him to various conflict zones, exposing him to harsh realities that he captures through profound and impactful imagery.

The movie effectively explores Eldon's enthusiasm for life, his talent for capturing beauty in the most unlikely places, his acute awareness of the injustices in the world, and his ultimate goal to make a tangible difference. It’s not just a story about a talented photojournalist but one of a deeply compassionate and brave soul who believed that art could illuminate the darkest places.

While the film is predominantly a character study of Eldon, Bronwen Hughes doesn't shy away from sketching out the socio-political context of East Africa during Eldon’s time there. The film bears witness to significant historical events within Africa, but it does so through Eldon's perspective, never losing sight of its core focus.

"The Journey Is the Destination" is an exquisite biopic rich in its portrayal of a passionate young life led with courage, determination, and an unyielding desire to spark change. This movie is a celebration of Eldon's infectious spirit, his exceptional talent, and the ability to see beauty in chaos. Director Hughes and writer Jan Sardi engagedly remind us through this evocative tale that sometimes, it's not where we're going that matters. It's how we get there and the actions we take on the way. The film serves as a testament to Dan Eldon's indomitable spirit and the inspiring life that he led, making us question what we, in turn, can do to change the world.