Camilla (1994)

Screen favorite Jessica Tandy (DRIVING MISS DAISY) stars with Bridget Fonda (KISS OF THE DRAGON) in this feel-good comedy about an unlikely pair who set off on the road to do everything they always wanted! On their madcap journey together, they find themselves losing their car in a lake, being duped by a con man, staging a kidnapping -- and having the time of their lives! If you liked FRIED GREEN TOMATOES and THELMA & LOUISE, you're going to love CAMILLA! It's a delightfully entertaining story that shows that friendship, fun, and adventure are all just part of the ride!

The Road to Discovery

This is an attractive little film (Jessica Tandy's last) about two musicians, one old and one young (Fonda), and how they lead each other through a journey of self-discovery. In the beginning both are hamstrung by men (a controlling son and a controlling husband) but by the end both have found ways to set themselves free. Along the way their journey, literally and figuratively, is full of unexpected twists, colorful characters, beautiful scenery and music, and a warm developing friendship between the eccentric but compatible lead characters. The supporting cast, particularly Maury Chaykin as the slovenly porn-producer son, are excellent.

In short, not a blockbuster or an award winner but there are much worse ways to spend an hour and a half. December 20, 2008

Camillia the Film was excellent inspiration

Camillia was an incredible inspiration and I love Jeccia Tandy and Bridget Fonda so very much as actors and felt inspired and happy to have in my film collection October 29, 2008

pleasant surprise

I was channel surfing and came across this movie. I love Bridget Fonda so I starting watching. What a surprise. It was witty, touching, and a little off the beaten path of comedy. The music was enchanting. Now I'm on the hunt for the soundtrack.
Follow the twists and turns on their road to adventure and true love. I'm hooked. Can't wait to see it again.
Enjoy it with a friend. October 8, 2007

An Unexpected, Wonderful Breath Of Fresh Air

This review refers to "Camilla" - VHS

So, I found this film at a close-out of VHS at my local video store. after reading the blurb on the back of the box, I was expecting something much different. It said if I liked 'Thelma and Louise"(which I love), that I would love this one. Although I became totally enamored of this film, other then two women on a road trip, it was nothing like T&L. I found it much closer to "Boys On The Side'(another fine women's 'road' film of bonding and friendship). But really, can you even imagine Jessica Tandy packing a pistol, holding up a store at gunpoint, or driving off the Grand Canyon, while fleeing the law. I think not.

It's quite a charmer. The story of two women, one in the twilight of her life(Tandy), who is a bit on the eccentric side and has been under the strong thumb of her controlling son(Maury Chaykin). The other(Bridget Fonda) is just starting her life with her husband and finds herself in his shadow, and she feels the need to make her own mark on the world. Both have strong musical backgrounds, and decide to take a trip from Georgia to Toronto to experience a once in a life time concert. Along the way, the meet with all kinds of pitfalls, losing a car, getting taken in by a con, and becoming the objects of a search and rescue mission at the requests of their frantic son and husband. All only serving to make them stronger and their friendship becomes a thing of beauty.They live out their fantasies on their own time schedule, and have a heck of a great time along the way. You can't help but smile and have a great time with them.

From the moment they set off to the tunes of "Born To Be Wild"(a great little reminder of Peter Fonda's great road trip "Easy Rider"), you are rooting for them to fulfill their dreams. The rest of the soundtrack(which I could not find here), is fabulous as well. Director Deepa Mehta has done a fine job of endearing these two women to us, and Jessica Tandy and Bridget Fonda give touching, poignant and funny portrayals. It's a feel good film of following your dreams that will leave you smiling long after the view, and it's one that will stand up to future viewings.

So, I was expecting Thelma and Louise fare, but was pleasantly surprised instead with an unexpected but wonderfully refreshing breath of fresh air, and a beautiful farewell from Miss Tandy.

Oh and I did notice that this is also available on DVD! - Camilla

Go for it and enjoy the ride....Laurie
May 22, 2007

A Legends Last Shout

Jessica Tandy (6/7/09 - 9/11/94)

Camilla is a touching and funny road movie about two women on a journey of self discovery, and the unexpected friendship that changed there lives.
Jessica Tandy plays Camilla, a feisty violinist who's life story sounds like a great novel. Freda played by Fonda, a musician trying to find her voice. This is really a great film, that didn't get the notice it deserves. A sweet memorial to a truly great actress. January 28, 2007

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