Hobo Heyseus is a thinly veiled motif of Jesus following a more accurate modern day depiction. The titular Heyseus is, would you guess it, a hobo. Well, not until his car breaks down at the beginning of the movie anyway. This leads to him pegging it to a bar where the intertwined journeys of many truly enjoyable characters begins. Along the way, we encounter issues of self loathing and body dysmorphia, homelessness, western classism, and material greed, all of which Heyseus tackles in his own chaotic, but ultimately sound manner. His personality - described by himself as psychopathic, but is moreso influenced by his undeexplored messiah complex - is his greatest asset, along with a good skill of casing people and understanding how to code language. As is the case with all things in life, no matter how good the intentions, nothing ever goes just as planned, the greatest variable being human nature itself.
This film, boiled down, is a cautionary tale against the misappropriation of Christianity, and is a gentle nudge toward giving love without expecting anything in return. A hippie's sentiment, yes, but one which the individual behind the heavy handed symbolism would have likely agreed with. Though this religious symbolism is deeply involved throughout, it is never unwelcome, nor does it come across as preachy. The main character's own religion is never truly even confirmed, though his knowledge of different religions and philosophies are on full display throughout, pitting his ragged hobo facade against his learn-ed truth.
Is this film for everyone? Yes. But I fear its message would be lost on those who truly need it. Unfortunately, everything that is set out to be done, is. And it's done well. But the very premise and goal of this move are hardly ones a casual viewer, especially those of religion, would ever like to hear. If you are already considering giving it a watch, do so. You'll like it. But don't expect to convince others.
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