Michael Cera & Michael Angarano’s Wild Road Trip Will Make You Laugh Out Loud in ‘Sacramento’

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  • Boys Masquerading as Men

The city of Sacramento offers a humorous journey as two ex-best friends, who have grown up with some angst, embark on an unexpected road trip. In this film, the versatile talent Michael Angarano, both writer, director, and actor, strikes comedy gold. This heartwarming tale about growing up, for those who are already adults, humorously emphasizes that maturity isn’t a guaranteed trait in life. There comes a time when immature, reckless, and erratic actions collide with the harshness of reality. It is our decision on how to handle that critical juncture that shapes our character. Admitting you need help and acknowledging your own cluelessness is nothing to be ashamed of.

In a secluded area, near a stunning lake, Rickey (Michael Angarano) finds himself. Across the water, another hiker, Tallie (Maya Erskine), beckons him. She calls out that they’re the only souls for miles and proposes they both take a dip and swim towards each other halfway. Later in Los Angeles, Glenn (Michael Cera) feels uneasy as he sets up a crib. He isn’t content with its stability, testing it until it collapses.

In a return home, Rosie (Kristen Stewart), who is heavily pregnant with Glenn’s child, encounters her breathless husband. She tenderly cares for him, much like nurturing an infant, while performing breathing techniques herself. Observing that Glenn could manage everyday tasks more effectively, she voices her concern. Meanwhile, a new voicemail from his old friend Rickey arrives on Glenn’s phone, which he has been disregarding due to months of juvenile pranks. Despite this, an unexpected sighting of Rickey concealed in their backyard’s tree causes Glenn to struggle with handling the situation, resulting in him darting out of sight instead.

Boys Masquerading as Men

In the story, Rosie compels Glenn to step outside. Ricky notices the mess in the crib and feigns ignorance about Rosie having a baby, instead asking for a meal with his longtime friend. Reluctantly, Glenn consents, hoping to terminate their friendship. The lunch is tense, and it becomes competitive when Ricky opts for the northern highway after lunch. He proposes a spontaneous drive to Sacramento. Initially, Glenn goes along, but later requests to return home. He’s worried about leaving Rosie on her own during an impulsive journey. Lastly, Ricky appeals to Glenn for one final favor, claiming a strong motive, but Glenn is hesitant about whether Rickey is truthful.

Angarano and Cera skillfully portray young men pretending to be grown-ups. Rickey thinks of himself as a kind of advisor, although he lacks professional qualifications and hands-on experience. He’s confident enough to offer unsolicited advice. Glenn has been married for quite some time, yet he’s not ready at all to become a father. He struggles with anxiety in every situation; crumbling under pressure when Rosie needs a reliable partner. He’s devastated when she doesn’t mind him going on a weekend trip.

After an initial peaceful start, Sacramento is brimming with unexpected twists and turns. Rickey conceals deep-seated secrets due to his inability to face them on his own. Glenn refuses to confide in others about his struggles; he’s got enough issues of his own. How can Glenn offer support for Rickey when he’s struggling himself? The animosity between the two men intensifies as they both try to hide their true emotions.

Glenn is unaware of Rickey’s intentions, and moreover, Glenn isn’t entirely truthful with himself. Glenn resorts to unusual tactics in his quest for answers, which only intensifies his unease. Rickey perceives that Glenn is spiraling downward, yet he continues to deceive because he fears that if Glenn returns home, their friendship will end. Instead of truly communicating and addressing their issues, the two characters seem to be talking at cross-purposes rather than listening to each other’s concerns.

Michael Angarano & Michael Cera Are Perfect in ‘Sacramento’

Angarano has been involved in more than 70 films and television shows since his youth, ranging from renowned productions such as “Seabiscuit,” “Almost Famous,” and “Will & Grace.” This extensive background is clearly demonstrated in skillful cinematography that effectively highlights peripheral action without losing sight of the main subject. In one scene, Rickey darts about playfully like an errant squirrel, leaving a puzzled Glenn to ponder why he’s persistently lingering in Sacramento.

The scene where Glenn, unaware of Rickey’s deceit, laughingly eats at a diner window, is skilfully arranged by the director. This humorous moment, as well as many others like it, are strategically placed throughout the movie. Additionally, there are inventive lighting effects and variations in frame rate. It’s clear that Angarano has a firm grasp of both acting and cinematography.

Once again, Cera slips into eccentric characters with an uncanny fit. His unconventional allure and distinctive style play a crucial role in crafting a hilarious conclusion that neatly wraps up the storyline. In an unexpected twist, Glenn reacts in a way not anticipated when he learns the true purpose of Rickey’s journey. This revelation taps into a deep-seated dread that has been eating away at him, hindering growth precisely when he requires it most. Rickey demonstrates his worth as a reliable confidant. Ultimately, everyone stumbles. There’s no disgrace in accepting help when needed.

The movie titled Sacramento, although entertaining, seems to zip by rather hastily within its 84-minute duration. It might have benefited from a longer runtime, as portrayed by Angarano. Despite the charming performances of Erskine and Stewart in their adult roles, it would have added depth to explore more about them. Sacramento is a production between Bee-Hive Production and The Wonder Company. It debuted at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival’s US Narrative Competition, held in New York City’s Village East by Angelika Theater. Sacramento made its way to theaters on April 11, 2025, under Vertical Entertainment’s distribution.

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2025-04-13 07:02