Almost There

In the poignant 2016 documentary Almost There, three men in the autumn of their lives embark on transformative journeys to rediscover meaning, happiness, and a sense of self. Bob, a retired individual seeking adventure, leaves the comfort of his home behind to traverse the stark landscapes of the Californian desert in a camper van. His quest for solitude and self-reflection unfolds against the backdrop of wide-open spaces, pushing him to confront his past and his aspirations for the future. Meanwhile, in the vibrant atmosphere of Benidorm, Steve, a drag queen and stand-up comedian, grapples with the weight of his history while striving to reconcile his flamboyant public persona with his private struggles. His journey is not just about finding laughter but also about embracing authenticity and making peace with the choices that have shaped his life.

The narrative seamlessly intertwines the lives of these men with Yamada, a gentle soul in Tokyo who discovers joy in storytelling, sharing tales with children that reignite his own playful spirit. Each character’s story is a testament to resilience, illustrating how the quest for happiness can take many forms and often leads to unexpected connections. The film beautifully captures the universal themes of self-discovery, redemption, and the enduring quest for joy, making it a heartfelt exploration of life’s later chapters. With a 7.2 IMDb rating, Almost There is a stirring reminder that it’s never too late to seek out one's truth and embrace the myriad possibilities life still holds.