Plot: What’s it about?
James (Martin Lawrence) has watched over his daughter like a hawk since she was born, steering her in the right direction and preparing for the day when she attends college. Not just any college however, but the one closest to home, in this case that would be Northwestern. So when his daughter Melanie (Raven-Symone) decides she wants to go to Georgetown, his world spins out of control and he plans to make sure she settles on Northwestern. A father-daughter road trip soon kicks off, but James’ plan to make Northwestern look great blows up in his face and then some. As the two head toward Georgetown, can James convince Melanie to change her mind or at least learn to accept her decision?
When the best part of a movie is Donny Osmond, you know you’re in trouble. College Road Trip is a bad movie, one that has a few bright spots, but only when the focus is taken off the main plot and characters. Whenever the film centers on Martin Lawrence and Raven-Symone, the movie tanks in total. But when the secondary characters take over, from Donny Osmond’s manic performance to an over utilized pig, the movie is at least passable. You can tell the filmmakers knew the main plot and performances were weak, as the supporting elements are around every corner. Osmond is insane here and really steals the show, but given how awful the rest of College Road Trip is, that isn’t much of a compliment. I recommend this as a one time watch, but only to see Osmond’s memorable turn, the rest of this movie isn’t worth a rental.
Video: How does it look?
College Road Trip is presented in 2.40:1 anamorphic widescreen. The movie itself stinks to high heaven, but at least it looks great in this presentation. The film has bright and colorful visuals, which lend themselves well to high definition. The colors look vivid and bold, with no blooming or oversaturation to mention. No black levels issues arose and clarity is strong, so detail is impressive. I don’t think depth is always that good, as longer shots don’t hold up as well, but this is still a mighty fine visual effort.
Audio: How does it sound?
This PCM 5.1 option is lively and fun, but never rises above basic standards. The surrounds are put to good use, especially when the musical numbers are on, but the depth and power isn’t there. This is fine though, given the nature of the movie and since all the audio elements sound good, there’s no cause for concern. The music is loud and clear, sound effects are well handled, and vocals come across with no problems. This disc also includes a Dolby Digital 5.1 option, a French language track, and subtitles in English, Spanish, and French.
Supplements: What are the extras?
Two audio commentary tracks are present, the first with director Roger Kumble and star Raven-Symone, the second with writers Emi Mochizuki and Carrie Evans. The first session is casual and talkative, as the two look back at the production and share their memories of the shoot. The second is a total waste of time, with no worthwhile elements to mention. This disc also includes some deleted scenes, a music video & a behind the scenes look at how the video was made, a gag reel, alternate opening & ending sequences, and a ten minute video diary from Raven-Symone.
