It all starts when Woody Stevens (John Travolta) pitches the idea, of taking a road trip from Cincinnati to California on their motorcycles, to his three best, middle-aged friends. Woody seems a bit reckless in the first place and so at first they don't give his idea much thought. However, after some reflection Doug (Tim Allen), Bobby (Martin Lawrence), and Dudley (William H. Macy) each decide that this might be just what they need at this stage in their lives. Call it a mid-life crisis on 2 wheels.

Once they decide to take off, the adventure begins and so do the laughs. At the outset, they all decide to throw away their cell phones so that they can be free and unattached to their lives in Cincinnati as a dentist, a writer, a computer analyst, and a husband to a supermodel in a marriage that is falling apart. Seeing each of them chuck their cell phones into the air only to see them smash into pieces was quite a sight. I can't imagine doing something so drastic myself, and I laughed at their stupidity while at the same time admiring them for their free spirit.

The open road proves to be full of light-hearted fun including camping, swimming, and a couple of run-ins with a bit-too-friendly highway patrolman. However, they are soon faced with a real danger when they stop in a biker bar run by the biker gang, The Del Fuegos, and get called out for what they really are. Dudley's bike is confiscated by Jack (Ray Liotta), the leader of the Del Fuegos, and the foursome is sent packing. Once they are a few minutes away, Woody decides to turn around and confront them. Scared, the others do not, and Woody rides off alone. When Woody arrives triumphantly a while later, they do not believe their eyes but do believe his made-up story. Eventually, when they stop in the peaceful town of Madrid, Woody's actions catch up to him and they find that a showdown with the Del Fuegos is inevitable. Meanwhile Dudley has fallen in love with the adorable Maggie (Marisa Tomei - and who wouldn't?) and must summon the courage to talk to her. Each of them, in turn, finds courage and growth in this spirited adventure that brings with it tons of laughs for the audience.

I enjoyed this movie immensely. Good comedies are rare and this one is a gem. The jokes, situations, and slapstick were as funny as could be and yet the story was very inspirational. The added bonus of Marisa Tomei was enough keep my eyes glued to the screen. I also thoroughly enjoyed the montage during the end credits that was based on The Extreme Make-Over Home Edition and even featured cameos from people on the show.

Guaranteed to make you laugh and put you in a good mood.