Watch Candy Mountain

Candy Mountain is a 1987 independent film directed by Robert Frank and Rudy Wurlitzer, starring Kevin J. O'Connor, Eric Mitchell, and Mary Joy. The movie tells the story of Julius (O'Connor), a struggling musician who has a chance encounter with a mysterious stranger named Floyd (Mitchell). Floyd offers Julius the opportunity of a lifetime, to travel to Canada and meet a wealthy reclusive musician named O.W. Grant (Tom Waits) who apparently is looking for a new talent to sign with his label.

The movie is a road trip through urban and rural America and Canada, in which Julius and Floyd share experiences and get to know each other better while stuck in the car. Floyd, who is a bizarre guy with a suspicious past, is often provocative and leaves Julius in uncomfortable situations. However, he also shows him a different way of seeing things, how to survive by his instinct, and the power of music to make people connect in a deeper way.

The narrative of Candy Mountain is intriguing, and as a viewer, you start to wonder about the intentions of Floyd and his interest in Julius. We see a lot of conflict as they make their way through the landscape, and this builds tension, leaving the audience anticipating what's going to happen next. The movie is not only about making a deal with a famous musician but also about finding one's true identity through the power of music.

Throughout the journey, we encounter different characters who give us a glimpse of the cultural richness of the places they visit. Candy Mountain is a weird and wonderful film that combines the surreal and the real, and it is never entirely clear what is happening or why. There are many unforgettable moments in the film, such as when Julius enters a disco bar in the middle of nowhere, and suddenly starts singing a song, capturing the attention of everyone in the room.

The movie has a lot of music in it, with many performances by Tom Waits, as well as other musicians, including Screamin' Jay Hawkins and Dr. John. The music is an essential element that drives the story forward, and it is fascinating to see how it shapes the characters and the places they visit.

Visually, the movie is stunning, with many gorgeous shots of different landscapes and urban settings. The cinematography by Peter Deming is of the highest quality, and it brings alive the intensity and absurdity of Floyd and Julius's journey. The movie is a mix of drama, comedy, and music, and it never takes itself too seriously, which is one of its strengths.

In conclusion, Candy Mountain is a quirky and obscure movie that deserves more recognition. It is a story about two men who set out on a journey to fulfill their musical dreams, and in the process, discover the importance of human connection and the power of music to unite people. The movie is not perfect, but it is unique, mesmerizing, and a great tribute to the human spirit. If you're a fan of independent cinema, or just love road trip stories filled with music, Candy Mountain is definitely worth watching.