Watch California Solo

In the film California Solo, we are introduced to Lachlan MacAldonich, a Scottish expatriate living in Los Angeles, who has spent the better part of his life touring as a guitarist and singer for a successful indie rock band. However, years of living the fast-paced lifestyle of a musician have taken a toll on Lachlan, and he now works on a farm as a laborer to make ends meet.

Despite living a simple life, Lachlan continues to face troubles in his personal life. He is estranged from his wife and daughter, and struggles with alcohol addiction. As a result, he is incarcerated for a DUI offense, and faces possible deportation back to Scotland. Lachlan realizes he must confront these issues head-on to prevent losing everything he has left.

The film is predominantly centered around Lachlan's character, with Robert Carlyle delivering a mesmerizing performance that showcases the complexities of his character's emotions. We can sense the pain and regret beneath Lachlan's calm exterior, and it is this vulnerability that lures us into his world.

Alexia Rasmussen plays Beau, a young woman whom Lachlan meets after his arrest. Beau is a free-spirited girl who works at a local organic food store, and her curiosity about Lachlan forces him to open up about his past. Their friendship develops gradually throughout the film, ultimately leading to Lachlan's attempts at redemption.

Kathleen Wilhoite portrays Lachlan's estranged sister, who lives in Scotland. The film takes us on a journey to Lachlan's past, where we discover why the siblings have not spoken in years. Despite their differences, they share a rare bond that is slowly reignited as Lachlan seeks redemption.

What sets California Solo apart from other character-driven films is its ability to weave together different themes, such as identity, addiction, and acceptance. It showcases the highs and lows of being part of the music industry, the effects of substance abuse, and how small, random encounters can lead to life-changing moments.

The film is set against the backdrop of the idyllic landscapes of California, capturing the essence of the state's vibrant culture and the beauty of its countryside. The cinematography is breathtaking, with long, lingering shots that perfectly capture the melancholic mood of the film.

Overall, California Solo is a poignant, character-driven film that showcases the incredible talent of Robert Carlyle. It is a story of redemption, acceptance, and the power of human connection, and is sure to strike an emotional chord with audiences.

California Solo is a 2012 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 62.