Fandango follows the five friends (one of which sleeps nearly all the film, the other an almost silent behemoth - studying to be a minister no less!) on their quest to not only dig up their “friend” Dom but maybe find some direction in their uncertain futures.   

Gardner Barnes (a very young Kevin Costner), desperate to keep his group of friends “The Groovers” together as well as maintain the party lifestyle of university, convinces his buddies to go on one last road trip so that he can avoid growing up and perhaps more importantly dodge the Vietnam draft.  Gardner’s best friend Kenneth Waggener (Sam Robards) goes along with the plan, also perhaps looking to escape The Draft and his broken.  Rounding out the main characters is tightly wound Phil Hicks (Judd Nelson) who goes along with things mainly to fit in, and because they are using his car. 

Fandango is an above average road trip movie that fleshes out its characters better than most modern incarnations of the genre.  Whilst the story does have a seen it before feel it also has some nice plot reveals that add to the overall experience, the true identity of Dom (though obvious) is nicely played, as is the resolution to Gardner’s romantic day dreams.  Also unlike modern day road trip movies Fandango avoids an abundance of gross out humour and sexual situations.  What it does provide is a touching coming of age story about the uncertainty of the future and the responsibilities of adulthood. 

Kevin Costner is engaging in one of his early performances bringing good time guy Gardner Barnes to life.  He is outshined somewhat by Judd Nelson as Phil Hicks the uptight “weenie” more interested in responsibility and being serious than fun.  It is Hick’s “I’ll prove I’m a Man” parachute jump that provides the comedic highlight of the film.  Credit must also be given to Marvin J. McIntyre who plays Truman Sparks the maniac parachute school pilot with suitable comedic aplomb. 

This is a very basic DVD package, with only the original theatrical trailer included as a bonus.  Luckily the movie more than makes up for the DVD’s shortcomings with likable characters, engaging and comedic situations and a solid at times emotional story all wrapped up in a neat little package. 

Engaging and Enjoyable - 3 out of 5 Stars.