Many of you might remember when production for a movie was filmed in Grand Haven early last year. That film, entitled The End of the Tour, is out now on DVD and Blu-Ray.

Based on David Lipsky’s memoir Although of Course You End Up Becoming Yourself, this adaptation takes viewers through a week in Lipsky’s life. Reporting for Rolling Stone, Lipsky meets up with famous author David Foster Wallace to interview Wallace for the newly released epic novel Infinite Jest; which was commended for its ground-breaking size and composure into a new field of American literature. Lipsky joins Wallace for the last week of his book tour.

Wallace, played by Jason Segel (Freaks and Geeks, The Muppets Movie), is said to be the greatest writer of our time. This leads for a more defensive character who is afraid to flaunt his ego and is often wary of strangers. This makes for interesting chemistry between him and the eccentric journalist Lipsky, played by Jesse Eisenberg (Adventureland, The Social Network), an admirer of Wallace’s work.

The two, both intrigued to understand one another, wander through query of questions over modern entertainment, the art of writing, and struggling with loneliness while travelling through Minnesota. Appearing at public events, holding book signings, and visiting the Mall of America, Lipsky and Wallace enjoy the more prestigious side of fame while holding on to their true convictions; that they are two normal people just dealing with life.

Backed by amazing dialogue, the two actors give stupendous performances that any yearning artist/writer can empathize with. Director James Ponsoldt (The Spectacular Now) worked hard to create an interesting dynamic of the true-story of a growing friendship. Originally made out to be a play, he took the story and found it more fitting as a road-trip type film.

In order to create the visual context for the film, production was held throughout West Michigan; specifically Grand Rapids and Muskegon. Many driving scenes show familiar landmarks all throughout cities. From the “Homework Tonight; READ!” sign hanging in the backroom to familiar faces of Grand Haven locals used as extras, the loving warmth of Grand Haven sinks deep in this existential movie.

Although the film is filled with inappropriate language and mature conversation, I believe it’s a must watch for those struggling with the depths of depression, loneliness, or self-importance. Artists/writers/thinkers alike can come into this film with familiarity to the difficulty in dealing with egocentrism.  It’s a deep and touching movie meant for the strong-willed and curious.

Check it out on DVD/Blu-Ray at your local video store or on your favorite streaming service.