Review: “Ride the Eagle”

Ride the Eagle is a film about moving on from grief and anger. It is written and starring Jake Johnson who wrote it alongside the director, Trent O’Donnell and they crafted a hilariously subtle film. At times it overindulges, but it still is heartwarming and carries a message that will surely resonate with an audience. It is ultimately a likable-enough indie film that touches on what it is to be human but never goes for the fences as it is more in line with that of what you would see from a rom-com, content for a few cute laughs and there is nothing wrong with that.

The plot follows Leif (Jake Johnson) who was abandoned as a boy by his mother, Honey (Susan Sarandon), who carries resentment toward his mother throughout his life that radiates throughout all of his life decisions. He gets word of his estranged mother’s death and she leaves him a conditional inheritance, her cabin up in the mountains. Before he can move into the cabin, away from his small yot in the backyard of his manager's place, Leif has to complete her to-do list and step into his mother’s world a bit as she attempts to make amends with him from beyond the grave. In doing so, Honey also hopes that in doing her silly to-do list, it will help Leif move on and find joy in what he loves once more.

The premise is silly by nature, but also a part of its charm. It is easy to think about how none of what transpires…