Going the Distance (also known as National Lampoon’s Going the Distance) is a 2004 Canadian-American road-trip comedy directed by Mark Griffiths. Starring Christopher Jacot, Shawn Roberts, Joanne Kelly, and Ryan Belleville, the film combines romance, outrageous humor, and cross-country adventure.
Set against the backdrop of Canada’s diverse landscapes, the story follows three friends on an unpredictable journey from the West Coast to Toronto. Their mission is simple: help one of them win back his girlfriend before she makes a life-changing decision.
Movie Summary
Nick has recently graduated and believes his future is already planned out. He has a comfortable life on Canada’s West Coast, a promising career ahead of him, and a girlfriend named Trish whom he hopes to marry.
However, his plans fall apart when Trish becomes involved with Lenny Swackhammer, a powerful and shameless music producer. Determined to stop the relationship and win her back, Nick decides to travel to Toronto, where Trish is attending the MuchMusic Video Awards.
His two best friends, Tyler and Dime, join him on the journey, turning what should have been a straightforward trip into a chaotic cross-country adventure. Along the way, they encounter unexpected obstacles, eccentric strangers, and two hitchhikers, Sasha and Jill, who add even more complications.
With limited time to reach Toronto, the three friends face a series of ridiculous situations that challenge their friendship and Nick’s carefully planned future.
Star Cast
- Christopher Jacot as Nick
- Shawn Roberts as Tyler
- Ryan Belleville as Dime
- Joanne Kelly as Sasha
- Mayko Nguyen as Jill
- Katheryn Winnick as Trish
- Jason Priestley as Lenny Swackhammer
- August Schellenberg as Emile
- Matt Frewer as Farmer Joseph
- Jackie Burroughs as Mother Libby
- Lynda Boyd as Toni
- Andrew Airlie as Jerry
- Jay Brazeau as Store Clerk
What Makes Going the Distance Worth Watching?
A Wild Cross-Country Road Trip
The journey from Canada’s West Coast to Toronto provides plenty of opportunities for unexpected encounters, bizarre situations, and comedic disasters. Each stop brings another challenge for the unlikely group of travelers.
Friendship and Romantic Complications
At its heart, the film is about friendship and the unpredictable nature of young love. Nick’s determination to rescue his relationship contrasts with his friends’ desire to enjoy the adventure.
A Fun Ensemble Cast
Christopher Jacot leads the story as the lovestruck Nick, while Shawn Roberts and Ryan Belleville provide much of the comedy through their characters’ outrageous behavior.
A Soundtrack Full of Energy
The movie features music from artists including Jet, The Darkness, Avril Lavigne, and The Trews, helping create the energetic atmosphere of a 2000s road-trip comedy.
Movie Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | Going the Distance |
| Alternative Title | National Lampoon’s Going the Distance |
| Release Year | 2004 |
| Country | Canada, United States |
| Genre | Comedy, Romance |
| Director | Mark Griffiths |
| Writers | Eric Goodman, Kelly Senecal |
| Main Cast | Christopher Jacot, Shawn Roberts, Joanne Kelly, Ryan Belleville |
| Production Company | Brightlight Pictures |
| Language | English |
| Runtime | 93 minutes |
| Original Release Date | August 20, 2004 |
Where to Watch Going the Distance (2004)
Availability varies by country and licensing agreements. Check local streaming catalogs and digital rental services for current viewing options.