Kerouac’s Road: The Beat of a Nation
SVA Theatre, (June, 05, 2025) — Director Ebs Burnough’s insightful documentary examines how Jack Kerouac’s iconic novel “On the Road” continues to resonate in contemporary America, interweaving stories of modern-day travelers with insights from those influenced by or connected to the legendary author.
The film retraces Kerouac’s restless journey across America while exploring how his emphasis on experience over material success, as well as authentic connection over digital convenience, speaks powerfully to our screen-saturated era. Featuring appearances by Josh Brolin, W. Kamau Bell, Michael Imperioli and Natalie Merchant, the documentary reframes Kerouac’s work for a generation seeking meaning beyond conventional success.
The documentary’s most compelling moments arise from contemporary travelers whose lives embody the spirit of Kerouac’s work individuals who have rejected digital dependency to embrace the visceral experience of the American road. For audiences seeking inspiration to break free from routine and reconnect with the physical world, Kerouac’s Road serves as a timely reminder that sometimes the most profound discoveries occur when we step away from screens and immerse ourselves in the messy, beautiful reality around us.—Jarod Neece.
Cast & Credits
Directed by
Ebs Burnough
Director
Ebs Burnough
Producer
Eliza Hindmarch, John Battsek, Ebs Burnough
Screenwriter
Eliza Hindmarch
Cinematographer
Tim Cragg
Editor
Paul Trewartha
Composer
John Forté
Executive Producer
Helen Parker, Johnny Fewings, Kerstin Emhoff, Ali Brown, Jim Sampas
Cast
Michael Imperioli, W. Kamau Bell, Josh Brolin, Matt Dillon, Natalie Merchant, Ann Charters, David Amram, Jay McInerney, Kim Jones, Jean-Christophe Cloutier, Joyce Johnson, Diana Langley, Tenaj Melendras, Faustino Melendras, Amir Staten, Angel Staten, Karlynne Staten
