Last Stop for Paul

Two fun-loving goofballs, Charlie (writer-director Neil Mandt) and Cliff (cinematographer Marc Carter), decide to walk away from their dead-end jobs as disposable-toilet-seat-cover salesmen and take a trip around the world with the thermos-encased ashes of their late buddy Paul, stopping at various points along the way to dole out spoonfuls of Paul's ashes. Of course, plenty of misadventures befall the hapless duo, as wacky locals and unpredictable travelers cross their path, and the whole shebang ends up at a full-moon beach party in Bangkok. Last Stop for Paul is guerrilla filmmaking at its best and worst—a no-budget, low-fi digital video production that will inspire would-be filmmakers who have lots of energy but little money. And the travelogue aspects here will certainly appeal to anyone who appreciates visiting the off-the-beaten-tourist-track spots in distant countries. But the film's shaggy dog appeal can only take the viewer so far before being distracted by the meandering storyline, subpar acting, and sense of self-indulgence. Still, adventurous and patient indie film fans might enjoy this gonzo flick that has picked up a boatload of film festival awards, making it a strong optional purchase, overall. (P. Hall)