Watch Rachel River

Rachel River is a 1987 drama film directed by Sandy Smolan, starring Pamela Reed, Viveca Lindfors, and Zeljko Ivanek. The movie depicts the life of a divorced mother, Rachel, who has to leave her life in New York City as a writer and move to rural Vermont with her son following a difficult divorce. Rachel is a resilient woman, despite the circumstances she finds herself in. She is smart, witty, and determined to make the best of her new life in Vermont despite the hardship she experiences. The movie follows her efforts to establish a new life with her son, balancing her job as a library clerk and taking care of her child, who seems to like Vermont a lot more than Rachel does.

As Rachel tries to find her footing in Vermont, she is continually struck by the isolation she experiences. She misses her old life and her friends in New York City, and her strained relationship with her ex-husband also takes a toll on her emotional well-being.

The movie is not just about Rachel's struggles with loneliness, but also about the people she meets in Vermont who help her along the way. These characters are well-crafted, and they help Rachel understand the beauty of the place she now calls home. They are also the reason she eventually learns to appreciate the small-town life and to embrace the new beginning that life has offered her.

One main character is Calla, a woman Rachel meets at the library where they both work. Calla is a free-spirited woman who has a different perspective on life, and her friendship is one of the ways Rachel is able to broaden her horizons in her new life. Calla's relationship with Rachel is heartwarming, and the two women become good friends, exploring and enjoying their new surroundings together.

Another noteworthy character is Ivar, an older resident who offers Rachel acceptance and the wisdom of a lifetime of experiences. He is a Renaissance man who has lived a colorful life and has many stories to share with Rachel. Ivar and Rachel form an unlikely friendship, and he becomes a very important figure in her life.

Throughout the movie, Rachel struggles to find herself and figure out what she wants from life. Pamela Reed's nuanced and empathetic performance as Rachel is exceptional, and she brings depth and vulnerability to the character.

Viveca Lindfors plays Sarah, who Rachel rents a house from. Sarah is taciturn and resentful, but Rachel is determined to make things work. Lindfors' performance as Sarah is excellent, and her character is critical to the storyline. Zeljko Ivanek plays Rachel's ex-husband Nick. The scenes between him and Reed are emotionally charged, and they show the pain that exists between estranged couples and the emotional toll the divorce has taken on their lives.

Rachel River is a moving drama that explores themes of love, loss, and finding oneself. It's an excellent film that balances drama and comedy while depicting a realistic portrayal of rural life in Vermont. The Vermont scenery is beautiful and adds to the movie's charm, acting as a reflection of Rachel's personal journey, the beauty that is often obscured by hardship. Smolan's direction helps to create an authentic feel to the small community depicted in the film.

Overall, Rachel River is a must-watch movie for those who enjoy a well-crafted, emotionally charged drama that is grounded in realism. Pamela Reed delivers an outstanding performance in this movie and is supported by a fantastic ensemble cast who help bring the story to life. The movie speaks to anyone who has experienced loss, isolation, or has had to start over in their lives, making it a relatable film that many will enjoy.