Hollywood to Dollywood

Watch Hollywood to Dollywood

"Twin brothers with a dream in a RV named Jolene..."
  • 2011
  • 1 hr 21 min
  • 6.6  (93)

Hollywood to Dollywood is a Hollywood road trip movie, with a twist - it's also a heartfelt documentary about coming out, chasing your dreams and the power of family. Directed by John Lavin, the film follows identical twins Gary and Larry Lane, two self-proclaimed "hillbilly boys from South Carolina", who are big fans of Dolly Parton, the queen of country music. So big, in fact, that they decide to hop on their tour bus and travel from Los Angeles to Dolly's theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, to finally meet their idol and give her the screenplay of their latest project, hoping she could star in it.

The Lane twins are charming and funny, and their enthusiasm is infectious. They come from a religious and conservative family and have struggled with their sexuality for years. They've also struggled with their careers - despite their talent (they are both actors, writers, and producers) and their good looks, they haven't managed to break into the big leagues of Hollywood just yet. But as they embark on their adventure, they find inspiration in Dolly's music and her rags-to-riches story. They also find a way to come out to their family (who are on the road with them), as well as some unexpected allies in the form of two fellow travelers - Chad Allen and Dusty Ray Bottoms.

Chad Allen and Dusty Ray Bottoms are both openly gay actors who have faced their own share of struggles in Hollywood. Chad Allen was a child star of the hit TV series "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman", but his career suffered after he came out as gay. Dusty Ray Bottoms is a drag performer who talks openly about his experience with addiction and homelessness. The Lane twins and their family meet them on the road and immediately hit it off - they share jokes, stories, and even a performance of Dolly's hit song "Jolene" (with Chad and Dusty in full drag).

The interactions between the four men are the highlight of the film - they are open, honest, and genuinely interested in getting to know each other. They also touch on some important issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community, such as discrimination, homophobia, and the need for representation in the media. But the film never feels preachy or heavy-handed - it's too joyful and funny for that. There are plenty of laughs - from the twins' over-the-top outfits and wigs to the various mishaps they encounter on the road (including a flat tire, a run-in with some evangelicals, and a hilarious encounter with a sexy tow truck driver).

As they get closer to their destination, the Lane twins start to face some tough choices. Should they put all their hopes on Dolly Parton, who may or may not like their script? Should they give up on their Hollywood dreams and head to Tennessee, where they feel more accepted and inspired? And how will their family react to their coming out?

The film's resolution is both satisfying and emotional, without giving anything away. Suffice it to say that the Lane twins' journey teaches them (and us) some valuable lessons about chasing your dreams while staying true to yourself, the power of love and support, and the magic of Dolly Parton. It also features some stunning shots of the American countryside, some toe-tapping tunes, and a healthy dose of Southern charm.

Overall, Hollywood to Dollywood is a delightful little gem of a film, perfect for anyone who loves road trips, Dolly Parton, or heartfelt stories about family and coming out. It's funny, touching, and inspiring without being too saccharine or preachy. It's a film that will leave you with a smile on your face and a spring in your step - and maybe even humming a Dolly song.

Hollywood to Dollywood
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Description
  • Release Date
    2011
  • Runtime
    1 hr 21 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.6  (93)