Lean on Pete (2018)
One of those films that paints a gritty portrait that seems very "real" and believable, similar to
American Honey. This isn't the kind of upbringing I had, but I imagine there are many neglected youth in North America who could relate somewhat with Charley, the main character.
He's a very nice kid (portrayed by Charlie Plummer), who never intends to get into trouble, it just happens to him along the way. I admired his courage and bravery in looking out for the horse, Pete, and how he managed to survive without anyone really taking care of him.
People have criticized the setting of the story, saying it would never have taken place in Portland, Oregon. I haven't been there so I can't agree or disagree, but regardless, the scenery is beautiful.
Glad it was nominated, as I might not have seen it otherwise.
The Hawks and the Sparrows (1966)
While
Lean on Pete was only partly an "on the road" movie, traveling on foot is the main theme of
Hawks and Sparrows. I was reminded of the song by the Talking Heads, "We're on a road to nowhere..." The father and son duo indeed seem to be wandering almost aimlessly, as they encounter a talking crow, and various other characters and random situations, which are often comedic.
I like allegorical, philosophical tales that give you something to think about, and even though the scenarios presented here may not be parallel to what we experience today, it still reflects "the human condition," because human nature doesn't change much, no matter what might be the accepted mores and values of a society.