Family vacation movies often bring to mind heartwarming tales of togetherness, scenic road trips, and maybe a touch of wholesome humor. But what happens when a family vacation movie takes a decidedly dark and unconventional turn? “Manson Family Vacation,” an indie dramedy directed by J. Davis, does just that, offering a unique and thought-provoking exploration of brotherhood against the backdrop of Charles Manson’s infamous crime locations. While it might not be your typical feel-good family film, “Manson Family Vacation” delves into the complexities of sibling relationships in a way that’s both darkly comedic and surprisingly touching.
A Brotherly Road Trip Through Dark History
The film centers on two brothers, Nick and Conrad, played by Jay Duplass and Linas Phillips. Nick is the responsible family man, grounded in suburban normalcy, while Conrad is his polar opposite – a free-spirited drifter drawn to the macabre. Their already strained relationship is thrown into further disarray when Conrad arrives for a visit and proposes an unusual itinerary: a tour of the sites connected to the Manson Family murders.
Jay Duplass and Linas Phillips in Manson Family Vacation
What begins as an awkward and unsettling premise evolves into a journey of unexpected connection. As the brothers navigate these grim historical landmarks, they are forced to confront their differences, their past, and ultimately, the enduring bond of family. The film blends dark humor with genuine emotion, creating a dramedy that’s as intriguing as it is unconventional.
Behind the Camera: Director J. Davis on Crafting “Manson Family Vacation”
In an interview, director J. Davis shared the genesis of this unique family vacation movie concept. His inspiration stemmed from a conversation with Jay Duplass, who expressed discomfort with Davis’s fascination with the Manson Family. This difference in perspective sparked the idea to explore that tension through the lens of sibling dynamics.
Davis revealed that Jay Duplass was always in his mind for the role of Nick. “Well, as I was writing, I started to picture Jay in the main role,” Davis explained. Initially, Duplass hadn’t acted before and hadn’t shown interest, but when approached, he readily agreed. Linas Phillips, known for his work in “BASS ACKWARDS,” later joined the cast, solidifying the dynamic between the two contrasting brothers.
Directing Duplass and Phillips was a rewarding experience for Davis, who lauded their spontaneity and emotional depth. He recounted a scene early in filming that he anticipated to be simple, but during which Phillips unexpectedly broke down in tears. This moment highlighted the raw emotional core the actors brought to their roles, enriching the film’s exploration of brotherly reconciliation.
Davis’s background in documentary filmmaking also played a crucial role, particularly in the editing process. His editing experience provided him with “a clear sense of what kind of coverage I needed,” ensuring he captured the necessary shots to tell the story effectively. The inclusion of actual documentary footage of Charles Manson himself was a later, impactful decision made during editing. Initially, the script featured a written Manson quote, but Davis found that “actual clips were much more effective in showing the audience the strange charisma of Charles Manson,” adding another layer of unsettling realism to this family vacation movie.
From Kickstarter to Film Festivals: The Journey of an Indie Family Movie
Bringing “Manson Family Vacation” to life was not without its challenges. Davis, who juggled the project with a regular job, described the toughest part as “shoehorning this project into my normal life.” However, the rewards outweighed the difficulties. He cherished the creative collaboration with close friends and the new connections forged during the filmmaking process.
Financing and distribution were also key hurdles. The project began with a Kickstarter campaign to gain initial momentum, followed by private investors. The film’s premiere at South By Southwest proved to be a turning point, leading to distribution offers after its first screening.
Why “Manson Family Vacation” is a Unique Family Movie Experience
While “Manson Family Vacation” may not fit the traditional mold of a family vacation movie, it offers a compelling and unconventional take on family dynamics. Its dark humor, combined with the genuine portrayal of brotherly bonding, makes it a memorable cinematic experience. If you are looking for a family movie that dares to be different, exploring complex emotions against an unexpected backdrop, “Manson Family Vacation” is worth seeking out.
You can watch “Manson Family Vacation” on platforms like iTunes and Amazon and discover a family vacation movie that truly breaks the mold.
