Hollywood to Dollywood

John Lavin's documentary about the quest for acceptance and the lure of star power focuses on identical twins Larry and Gary Lane. Fans of Dolly Parton's brand of open-heartedness, the Lanes have spent five years writing a script for her, and decide to document their trip from California to Tennessee to deliver it to the entertainer on the occasion of her 25th anniversary. Raised by devout southern Baptists in North Carolina, Larry and Gary came out as gay in their mid-20s, and their relationship with their mother—who shares their love of Parton's music—has never been the same. Before the siblings leave, they seek advice and support from actors Chad Allen, Beth Grant, and Leslie Jordan, who all have connections to the South. They also meet with Milk screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, who suggests that they shorten their 160-page draft. Along with Gary's boyfriend, producer Mike Bowen, the brothers hit the road in an RV named Jolene, visiting friends and famous roadside attractions (like Graceland and the Cadillac Ranch) during their 2,200-mile trip. The travelers also pass through Nashville in the wake of a devastating flood, but they manage to get to Dollywood in time, where they attend several Parton performances, looking for the opportune moment to approach her, which proves easier said than done—although the 15 Dolly songs on the soundtrack indicate that she gave this project her blessing. Recommended. (K. Fennessy)