In “Scenic Route,” by first-time directors Kevin and Michael Goetz, we have former soap star Josh Duhamel (“All My Children”), now 40, and Dan Fogler, a Zach Galifianakis-type.

While Route doesn't have the subtlety of that terrific 2003 film, it takes enough unexpected turns, particularly at the film's finale, to make for gripping, anti-superhero summer viewing.

In "Scenic Route," which opens Friday, he's in a struggle for survival. The movie, filmed in Death Valley, starts out as a buddy flick: Two old friends set out on their annual road trip, driving ...

Movie review: 'Scenic Route,' Kevin and Michael Goetz's drama starring Josh Duhamel and Dan Fogler, has flat characters and an uninspired plot about an unhappy family man and a bitter failed artist.