Watch The Journey Is the Destination

"The Journey Is the Destination" is a 2016 biographical drama film directed by Bronwen Hughes, based on the life and work of Dan Eldon. The movie stars Ben Schnetzer as Dan Eldon, a 22-year-old photojournalist and artist from London who travels to Somalia in the early 1990s, where he documents the Somali civil war and the humanitarian crisis that follows. Along the way, Eldon befriends fellow journalists and aid workers, including his love interest, Amy (played by Kelly Macdonald), and risks his life to tell the stories of the people he meets.

The film follows Eldon's journey as he navigates the complexities of reporting in a war zone, including the ethical dilemmas that arise from his work. Throughout his travels, Eldon maintains a deep passion for storytelling and a desire to make a difference in the world. He becomes increasingly committed to using his platform as a journalist to raise awareness about the plight of the Somali people and advocate for their rights.

Eldon's journey is not without its challenges, both personal and professional. As he immerses himself in his work, he struggles to maintain his relationships with his family and friends back home. He also faces pushback from some of his colleagues who question his approach to reporting and worry about the risks he takes. Despite these obstacles, Eldon remains focused on his mission and continues to hone his craft.

The film is visually stunning, using bold colors and collage-like imagery to reflect Eldon's artistic sensibilities. By incorporating his own photographs and journal entries, the movie pays tribute to Eldon's creativity and dedication to his work. Schnetzer does an excellent job of portraying Eldon's passion and idealism, imbuing the character with a sense of energy and enthusiasm that is infectious. Macdonald's performance as Amy is equally strong, conveying both the character's warmth and her own admiration for Eldon's talent.

One of the strengths of the film is its unflinching depiction of the gruesome reality of war. Hughes does not shy away from the brutality of the conflict in Somalia, showing the pain and suffering of the people caught in the crossfire. At the same time, the film celebrates the resilience and humanity of the Somali people, who continue to find joy in the midst of chaos.

Overall, "The Journey Is the Destination" is a powerful testament to the importance of storytelling and the impact that one individual can have. Eldon's legacy serves as a reminder of the value of bearing witness to the world's injustices, and of the transformative power of art and journalism. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of creativity and social change.

The Journey Is the Destination is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 3 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.