Watch Manson Family Vacation

Manson Family Vacation is a dark comedy-drama movie that tells the story of two estranged brothers, Nick and Conrad. Nick is a successful family man who has settled down with his wife and child, while Conrad is a drifting wild card who is obsessed with Charles Manson and his infamous "family." When Conrad visits Nick in Los Angeles for his birthday, he reveals that he plans to take a road trip to visit famous Manson murder sites. Despite Nick's reluctance, the two embark on the journey together, which ultimately leads them to confront their troubled relationship and test the limits of their bond.

The movie opens with a brief introduction to the characters. Nick seems like the typical loving father, husband, and successful businessman. In contrast, Conrad is a scruffy, eccentric, anti-social wanderer who has traveled the world without much of a plan. When Conrad arrives at Nick's doorstep, he seems out of place in his suburban home, and the brothers' initial exchange is awkward, reminiscent of two strangers who are meeting for the first time. Conrad presents Nick with an unusual birthday gift that sets the film's plot in motion- A tour of the infamous Manson murder sites.

As they travel across California, Nick begins to understand Conrad's obsession with Manson and his devotion to the cult leader's bizarre ideology. Conrad, in turn, faces Nick's disapproval of the trip, which leads him to question his own desires and personal life. Their journey is marked by unexpected encounters, ranging from creepy tourist traps to chance meetings with Manson's followers. These experiences slowly reveal the brothers' different approaches to life and their shared history, casting light on their contrasting personalities.

As the trip comes to a close, the brothers find themselves at the notorious "Spahn Ranch", where Manson and his followers lived during their crime spree. Here, the film's themes of perceived freedom, sacrifice, and moral complexity culminate, and the brothers' relationship is tested. Manson Family Vacation explores the ideas of loyalty, love, and the different paths one can take in life, which can lead to conflicting worldviews and emotions.

The film's performances are impressive, with Jay Duplass and Linas Phillips adeptly embodying their characters' differences and challenging dynamics. The actors portray the subtle changes in their relationship with sensitivity and authenticity, capturing the nuances of their bond. Their conversations on the subject of Manson are heartfelt and genuine, and carry with them a sense of deliberation- as if every word spoken and every thought shared could make or break the bond between them.

The cinematography of the movie is equally impressive, with the scenery of California's deserts and mountains serving as a fitting backdrop for the journey that the brothers embark on. The visuals also capture the tawdriness of roadside attractions and the eerie mundanity of the infamous murder sites. The soundtrack consists of evocative music that sets the mood for the different scenes and captures the essence of the movie's somber feel.

In conclusion, Manson Family Vacation is a thought-provoking, darkly comedic exploration of family, loyalty, and the importance of face-to-face communication in maintaining relationships. Director J. Davis skillfully blends humor with drama, creating a movie that is both touching and poignant. The film's performances and cinematography are highlights, elevating the movie above the realm of a standard road trip movie. Manson Family Vacation encourages viewers to reflect on their own views on freedom, loyalty, and relationships, and is a definite must-watch for those seeking a fresh take on family-oriented themes.

Manson Family Vacation is a 2015 mystery with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.