Old Joy

Mark, a former hippie, has embraced a more settled life in Portland, Oregon, as he eagerly awaits the arrival of his child with his wife, Tania. However, an unexpected call from his longtime friend Kurt disrupts his routine. Kurt, who has maintained a carefree, hand-to-mouth lifestyle, invites Mark on a nostalgic camping trip to Bagby Hot Springs in the Cascades, a place full of shared memories. While Mark contemplates the adventure, Tania reacts with passive-aggressive disapproval. Though he offers to bring her along, she chooses to stay behind.

Once Mark and his loyal dog Lucy arrive at Kurt’s temporary stay, there’s an air of anticipation. After a period of waiting, Kurt finally shows up, energized by his recent “transformative” retreat in Ashland. As they drive to Bagby, the duo reminisces about the closing of their favorite record store, lamenting that it symbolizes the “end of an era” for them both.

Lost on their journey, they stumble upon a makeshift campsite adorned with discarded furniture, prompting Kurt to share his philosophical musings about a teardrop-shaped universe. Mark, however, appears indifferent to this exploration of ideas. In a moment of vulnerability, Kurt expresses his feelings of estrangement, longing for a rekindled friendship. Although Mark disagrees with Kurt’s assessment, he remains uneasy about their connection. After sharing some beers and engaging in a little target practice with a pellet gun, they ultimately settle down for the night, sleeping side by side in the tent.

The next morning brings a visit to a diner where a waitress provides them with directions to Bagby. After a series of revelations, Kurt shares his mystical insight that “sorrow is nothing but worn-out joy.” Despite Mark’s earlier promise to Tania to return by noon, they don’t make it back until the darkness envelops the city.

In the end, a fleeting goodbye takes place on the same street where their journey began. Mark, immersed in thought, turns on Air America, his last connection to the idealistic beliefs of his youth. Meanwhile, the film closes with poignant scenes of Kurt wandering the streets of Portland, seemingly adrift with no clear destination.

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:03