Phoenix, Oregon

R

2019

1 hr. 48 min.

Comedy

Drama

List

82%

22 Reviews

Tomatometer

67%

Fewer than 50 Ratings

Audience Score

Two friends seize the opportunity to quit their jobs and restore an old bowling alley.

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Critics Consensus

Suffused with warmth and populated with likable characters, Phoenix, Oregon is well worth a visit.

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Audience Member

Acting was more than find . Story was just bland . 2.7

Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars

12/31/20

Full Review

Audience Member

This film is a very low-key affair. I don't say that to imply it is boring or not worth your time, far from it. This film is almost soothing to watch as it explores two men trying to start a new business in the throes of a mid-life crisis. It is character comedy. There aren't a bunch of one-liners, the humour comes from watching these character interact and relating to them. The main character is relatable and has some funny dialogue, although his romantic travails are a bit cliché. Overall a very fun watch with some great acting and surprising writing, with a decent amount of whimsy!

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

02/26/23

Full Review

Audience Member

Phoenix, Oregon is a well-done indie film with a lot of charm and some funny moments. The story centers on Bobby, a relatable character who you're drawn to from the moment the film begins. Throughout the film, Bobby spends some time drawing graphic novels- his true passion. His spreads include pieces of his past (and aliens because he has some interesting thoughts about their involvement in his life). These spreads come into play within the film as flashbacks that I thought were a unique touch. The romantic interest for Bobby wasn't a likable person in my opinion... and the romance felt tacked on in general. Definitely wasn't a fan of that, but the rest of the film was delightful and witty. Also... if you decide to watch this, make sure you get a pizza to eat because I regret not having pizza.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

01/22/23

Full Review

Audience Member

In era of seemingly increasing divisiveness, it's still possible to come together over a pizza, craft beer, and bowling and enjoy each other's company. More than that, Phoenix, Oregon provides an authentic look at the experience of risking it all, knowing you could potentially lose it all, when it might not make sense to do so. In the humdrum of mid-life and small towns, we can make something beautiful, even if it doesn't last forever. Driven by a strong cast and rich characters, Phoenix, Oregon ultimately shows us that it's not too late to follow your dreams.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

01/30/23

Full Review

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Gary Lundgren

Director

James LeGros

Bobby

Jesse Borrego

Carlos

Lisa Edelstein

Tanya

Rey Gallegos

Mario

Diedrich Bader

Kyle

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Devika Girish

New York Times

It's all a bit uneventful, but it works as an endearing portrait of average life: sometimes up, sometimes down, but moving steadily along.

Jun 1, 2020

Full Review

Claudia Puig

FilmWeek (KPCC - NPR Los Angeles)

I thought it was a coming-of-middle-age tale, in a way. It's enjoyable and has this warm, upbeat energy in its best moments.

Mar 21, 2020

Full Review

Tim Cogshell

FilmWeek (KPCC - NPR Los Angeles)

A very slight little movie that takes a while to get going, but once it does get going it is such a delightful film.

Mar 21, 2020

Full Review

Asia Frey

Lagniappe (Mobile, AL)

A soothing but amusing misadventure, this is a nice little dramedy that really hit the spot for me.

Jul 10, 2020

Full Review

Liam Lacey

Original Cin

Powered by excellent actors, this good-natured and well-acted small-town drama about midlife renewal is recommended as a distraction and a slice of comfort food.

Jun 1, 2020

Full Review

Raquel Stecher

Quelle Movies

a heartfelt exploration of self-reinvention, friendship and love.

May 17, 2020

Full Review

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Synopsis

Two friends seize the opportunity to quit their jobs and restore an old bowling alley.

Director: Gary Lundgren
Screenwriter: Gary Lundgren
Production Co: Joma Films
Rating: R (Language)
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Streaming): Jun 2, 2020
Sound Mix: Dolby Digital
Aspect Ratio: Scope (2.35:1)