The Straight Story

"(Review ends in the comments section) + THE STRAIGHT STORY starts with a view of the stars and ends with that same shot. A shot like this could easily have been only aesthetic in nature, setting the mood for the film, but it also helps the characters put their lives in perspective along the way. Even when they face challenges, a look at the stars serve as a humbling reminder of how vast the cosmos are, and what little space people (and their problems) take up in it. The movie is about Alvin Straight who lives in Iowa and sets out on a journey to Wisconsin, riding his lawnmower with a camper towed behind, so that he can see his brother Lyle who has suffered a stroke. Both have not talked to each other in ten years. The plot appears eccentric on the surface but it's actually simple and direct about what it is. The characters Alvin interacts with in Iowa and on his journey to Wisconsin can be silly, but they feel real, like people you could come across in everyday life; they aren't devices for a shift in plot. The score is very simple, not trying to grab our attention, but providing a constant narrative flavor that goes beautifully with the flatlands of the Midwest. And through it all Richard Farnsworth as Alvin Straight carries us through with a delicate balance of humility and stubbornness found in many older people who have been put through life's trials, but also struggle with changing their ways that have been reinforced by years of practice. There is such a tenderness to his character that touched me even when he wasn't speaking. Sissy Spacek is also flawless as his daughter Rose. She is said by the townspeople to be slow, and though her mind is a bit child-like, it's also sharp. She even proves capable of looking after Alvin in his old age. Spacek walks this line with tact and grace. A great performance. David Lynch is the director and here he does not only one of my personal all-time favorites, but also some of his best, most accessible work."

"David Lynch directing a Disney movie has got to be the ultimate just-crazy-enough-to-work idea to ever exist. Best road trip movie ever"

"Oldie 1999 but goodie. Elderly man sets out on a journey to visit his brother. Can't drive a car so he rides his 🚜 hundreds of miles. Wisconsin to Iowa. Heartwarming and entertaining. Disney film. Richard Farnsworth and Sissy Spacek."

"01/17/24"

"This movie is very slow, so if you’re the type to need some action to stay engaged, this film might not be for you. However, it hits you right in the heart. It’s packed with emotion, and if you’re sensitive, it even has potential to coax a couple tears. It’s an amazing movie."