Robert Carey I had a chance to watch this recently and I was thoroughly surprised by this "documentary"I put that word in quotes because it really didn't play to me like your typical documentary does. This was a very endearing story about a couple of really likable guys who set out to do something rather ambitious yet mundane - drive this VW bus halfway across the United States.It sounds simple, but it ends up being anything but. This bus - "the croc" is about as close to vehicular death as any vehicle can be. Travelling the shortest of distances down route 66 proves to be an exercise in frustration and futility.Here's where this movie really sets itself apart. There are much deeper human stories going on here. First you have Dave - the owner of the croc. Dave you find out through family and friends is a very affable, friendly not-so-handy guy with a long history of unfinished business. The act of getting this bus to California ends up being much more than just simple transportation for Dave - it's a very meaningful life journey. Dave's sidekick on this journey is Charlie, who is part comic relief and part unflinching much needed moral support. Sometimes just seeing Charlie in-frame smoking his pipe is enough to put a smile on your face.Lastly, something that really shines through here is the connection between people that really restores some faith in humanity and the good will around you. All along this journey Dave, Charlie and the croc are pushed, pulled, disassembled and revived by a brotherhood of VW aficionados and their associates that will amaze you with their generosity and kindness.You will groan with frustration when the croc sputters and dies...again and again and again. You will cheer when it starts back up again limping Dave and Charlie westward one mile at a time.

Kim Romano Circle the Wagon was engaging and entertaining the whole ride. The editing was tight, with arcs evenly paced throughout. I'm really hoping that this film makes it through and becomes available online or at other film festivals so I can share it with friends and family (and stop trying to describe it!). It IS a buddy film (for one) and the friendship between the protagonists and the friendships they develop is a special aspect of the film. You don't have to know about VW Bus culture to become engaged in this film, and I don't think the filmmakers knew that much about VWs in the beginning either. Rather, this is a really funny documentary about the humanity, humility and hilarity when you follow your crazy dream.Having filmmaker friends I've learned that "the unexpected" is really what makes a documentary and it's what you hope for. Circle the Wagon got that element of surprise--it's the best movie I've seen all year.

Adam McMellon I will admit that my opinion might be biased due to the fact that I got the opportunity to meet these guys, get to know them over time and have come to call them friends. Put that aside and this is still a wonderful movie that you should make a point to see. I was also at the world premier of Circle The Wagen and any expectations I had for the movie were exceeded. Circle The Wagen starts with a desire but ends up telling the story of determination. From wide eyed, ready to take on the world and pursue the road ahead of you to beat down, near tears, frustration like you've never known, this movie gives the good, the bad, and the ugly all their 15 minutes of fame. Even when times got tough I felt my heart warm as I knew I'd been there before and I knew so many shared those moments too. That is what makes this community and that is exactly what these guys did a great job of documenting for the public to see. This movie chronicles an important part of life that some people never take the chance to act upon. Having a dream and making it happen no matter the cost. Even now I get a lump in my throat as I picture Dave, Charlie and The Croc crossing that bridge in California and pulling onto the pier. You made it! I know that feeling and so do so many other passionate people out there. Watch this movie to be inspired. Watch this movie to remember why you have those crazy friends who will go with you anywhere. Watch this movie and remember that "the kindness of strangers" is still out there waiting for you when you need it. Watch this movie and then go find those roads you've been always wanting to explore.

onetofixit I thoroughly enjoyed attending the World Premier of Circle the Wagen at the Route 66 Film Festival. Our classic Camper Bus was part of the impressive line of classic VWs on Central (historic Route 66) in front of the Guild Cinema theater.Documentaries usually don't entertain me but this film is a refreshing departure from what I expect out of a documentary. Ryan Green did an excellent job taking the viewer along the ups and downs Dave and Charlie lived with the Croc. Being a long time classic VW enthusiast (and therefore also a homegrown mechanic) I wanted to jump into the film to help fix the Croc! Fellow enthusiasts did jump in and fill the need.My word for this film is "inspirational". I left the theater wanting to revisit and complete every undone project I've ever started. To think they almost didn't complete this film! I'm so glad they did!How did they get to LA? You'll have to watch it to find out. I will say it wasn't easy but if it were, where would the adventure be?