Old Joy

Mark, a former hippie, has chosen to settle down in Portland, Oregon. He is happily expecting a child with his wife, Tania, marking a significant shift from his adventurous past.

Mark receives a call from his old friend Kurt, who invites him for an overnight camping trip to Bagby Hot Springs. Despite their differing lifestyles, Mark decides to accept the invitation, which causes some tension with Tania.

Upon learning about Mark's trip, Tania reacts with passive-aggression, revealing her lack of enthusiasm for his decision to reconnect with Kurt. Mark attempts to include her in the trip, but she declines the invitation.

Mark, accompanied by his dog Lucy, arrives at Kurt's place and waits for him to return. Upon Kurt's arrival, he shares that he has just come back from a 'transformative' retreat in Ashland.

Mark and Kurt set off for Bagby Hot Springs, with Lucy in tow. During the ride, they reminisce about the closing of their favorite record store, signifying a nostalgic moment of lost youth.

After getting lost, Mark and Kurt decide to pitch their tent at a campsite filled with abandoned furniture. Kurt opens up about his feelings of distance between them, revealing his desire for their friendship to return to its former closeness.

As night falls, the two men indulge in some beer and engage in activities like shooting cans with a pellet gun. This moment of camaraderie leads to a vulnerable discussion about their friendship, although Mark remains cautious.

The following morning, Mark and Kurt stop at a diner where they receive directions to Bagby Hot Springs from a friendly waitress. This brief interaction lightens the mood as they prepare to continue their adventure.

After their detour, the two finally arrive at Bagby Hot Springs. Kurt shares his mystical insights gained from his retreat, highlighting a transformation in his perception of joy and sorrow.

As planned, they should return around noon, but they end up getting back to Portland well after dark. This delay signifies the unforeseen depth of their encounter and the journey they've just shared.

Mark and Kurt say a quick goodbye on the street where they first met. This parting is bittersweet, encapsulating their history and a sense of unresolved connection.

After parting ways, Mark sits in his car and turns on Air America, reflecting on his past ideals and current life. This moment captures his contemplation and sense of longing for his former self.

The final scenes depict Kurt wandering aimlessly through the streets of Portland. His solitary journey symbolizes a search for purpose and belonging amidst the fast changes around him.