'The Trip To Spain' A Review

The Trip to Spain is a buddy comedy, the third installment in the Trip series staring Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon as versions of themselves going on a restaurant tour, this time through Spain. Coogan is attempting to write a book, the trip mirroring one who took as a young man. Brydon is eager for a break from his toddler. The two discuss history, fame, fatherhood, and of course swap impressions.

Both Coogan and Brydon continue to add subtle dimension and layers to their faux counterparts as the series progresses. As the series has progressed the lines between the character and the person are blurred with some actual life developments incorporated and some not. It makes for two surprisingly compelling performances considering the nuance that this kind of distinction requires. Coogan more so than Brydon feels like he is truly creating an alternate version of himself playing up various flaws and idiosyncrasies. Brydon, very charming and funny, seems to be playing a more straight forward version of himself. There isn't much in the vein of supporting cast aside from various locals along the two friends journey but they are all serviceable.

The film delivers beautiful scenery, beautiful food, great conversation, and consistent humor. There's nothing to distinguish this installment from the others save for the location and that Coogan and Brydon are a little order. Even so there is great pleasure in revisiting these characters, their comfortable camaraderie, their wit and playful competition, their waxing and waning existential crises. Given the glut of superhero franchises, reboots, and remakes the Trip series delivers the most reliable and compelling product.

See It.