On the Road
Metascore
56 out of 100

Mixed or average reviews - based on 32 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 19 out of 32
  3. Negative: 0 out of 32
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  1. St. Louis Post-Dispatch
    Reviewed by: Joe Williams
    Mar 21, 2013
    88
    Notwithstanding the characters’ spiritual camaraderie, Salles’ emphasizes the hard physical labor and loneliness in Sal’s story, including the jittery rigors of the writing process. When he reaches a crossroads choice between down-and-out Dean and his own rising career, Sal senses that except for the words on a typewritten scroll, his life on the road is gone, real gone.

User Reviews

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User Score
6.5 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 21 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 6
  3. Negative: 1 out of 6
  1. lahaine2012
    4
    For a movie that was meant to take us on a wild ride with idols from the spontaneous beat culture, it sure does follow a familiar road map. Always maintaining the same route and never attempting to venture out into an uncharacteristic art form, On the Road proves to be an underwhelming and disappointing road film, on many levels. This is primarily due to the narrow screenplay that sticks to that aforementioned, familiar path; and the dull central presence of … Full Review »
  2. Recomedia
    6
    Walter Salle’s and Rivera’s adaptation of Kerouac’s classic novel is a brave attempt. Between its documentary feel and young and often naked aaked actors, this film reeks of both the cool and freedom that was brought forth by the beats. Unfortunately it lacks their impact. On the Road fails due to it’s inability to stand alone without the stories pre-developed reputation and fan base...

    To read more visit: http://www.recomedia.net/filmtv/on-the-road-the-beats-brought-back/    … Full Review »
  3. TVJerry
    6
    In this adaptation of Kerouac's novel, a young author travels America on writing adventures, while obsessing about his best friend/muse, Dean Moriarty. Thanks to Moriarty, he enjoys cross-country exploits fueled with drugs, alcohol and sex in all combos. While the performances and the pace keep it interesting, the narrative rambles all over the place (just like the characters). There's not an emotional arc or any involving drama until the final few moments, but by that time, 4 people had walked out of my screening. If you want to see what wild times were like 1947 51 and see how they portray notable literary characters (Burroughs, Allen Ginsberg, etc with some notable actors) you may find it interesting.… Full Review »
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