User Reviews

Ernest Borgnine on the Bus (1997)

*** 1/2 (out of 4)

Even though some might call this a home movie, that's okay because it's a home movie with the Oscar-winning Ernest Borgnine. Basically we see Borgnine on his bus as he travels across the country with his son. Along the way director Jeff Krulik discusses various aspects of his life, his movies and best of all we see the legend simply running into normal people across the country.

I really wasn't sure what to expect from this. Look, there's no question that there's no high production values here and even for a documentary the film contains a really low and obviously small budget. Still, it's extremely entertaining getting to see Borgnine talk about his career as he drives around this bus and stops at various locations where we get to see him interact with his fans.

Borgnine tells some really good stories and does plenty of name dropping as he discusses various aspects of his career. Everything from his role in McHale's Navy to his Oscar-winning MARTY are discussed and we even get some great stories about working with Bette Davis, traveling to other countries for roles and we even get to hear a funny story about WILLARD. Fans of Borgnine will certainly enjoy this.

One of the most pleasant video experiences in recent years: hop on board "The Sunbum", a customized luxury bus touring the heartland of the US with your driver (and host) Ernest Borgnine and his son Cris. As you tour past the corn fields, down the interstate highways, through the trailer parks, hear Ernest spin stories of Hollywood past - just sit back and relax and take the trip with him.

** Hear how he managed not to be typecast immediately after his 1955 Academy Award performance in "Marty" (no actor these days would be brave enough to do what he did!)

** How he successfully talked himself out of the lead in "McHale's Navy" -- and who made him come to his senses.

** And how he successfully managed to talk himself out of being mentioned in Shelley Winters' autobiographies.

Hear stories about his favorite movies, the people he's worked with and views on life in general as we thunder through Iowa, Milwaukee (including appearing in full clown regalia for his annual appearance in The Great Circus Parade) and the surrounding states and meet many of the locals he comes across in his travels. The one drawback is that one wishes Ernest could tell his stories without the distraction of driving a 40 ton bus at the same time! Don't expect a film as if it was shot by Gregg Toland--the filmic style here is more like an MTV music video (the soundtrack includes songs by The Who and Bachman Turner Overdrive among others)--and it is not judgmental on anyone involved (you will be amazed at the jaw dropping lack of pretense--all lovely people, all funny stories). Whilst it may only be 45 minutes long, Jeff Krulik's "Ernest Borgnine On The Bus" would be a welcome addition to any serious movie buff's home video library--as well as those who want to rent a tape to hear a tale or two, see some great scenery, and have a good laugh on a cold night.