Watch The Stone Boy

The Stone Boy from 1984 is a poignant drama starring Robert Duvall, Jason Presson, and Glenn Close. Directed by Christopher Cain, this film is based on a novel by author Gina Berriault. The story follows a family dealing with the aftermath of tragedy and the desperation that arises from the inability to cope. Jesse, played by Jason Presson, is a young boy from Montana who accidentally shoots and kills his older brother Arthur while out on a hunting trip. The incident sends shockwaves throughout the family, as each member tries to process the tragedy in their own way.

Robert Duvall plays Jesse's father Joe, a stoic and reserved man who struggles to connect with his remaining children after losing his eldest son. Glenn Close plays Jesse's mother Ruth, who is wracked with guilt and despair over her failure to protect her children. As the family grapples with their grief, they begin to fracture and drift apart, unable to find solace in each other.

Against this backdrop, Jesse becomes increasingly isolated and withdrawn, finding solace only in the company of his grandfather, played by Wilford Brimley. Their bond deepens as they work together on the farm, and their shared love of the land becomes a source of comfort for them both.

As the film progresses, we see the impact of the tragedy on the family in vivid detail. Joe struggles to contain his anger and grief, lashing out at his wife and children. Ruth falls into a deep depression, unable to find a way out of her despair. Their younger daughter Karen, played by Susan Rinell, becomes increasingly distant, seeking solace in her own friends and pursuits.

Despite the pain and heartache depicted in The Stone Boy, there is a quiet beauty to the film. The sweeping landscapes of Montana are a backdrop to the family's struggles, a reminder that life goes on even in the face of tragedy. The film is shot in muted colors, emphasizing the bleakness of the family's situation. The script is spare, with few words spoken that aren't necessary, giving the actors ample room to convey their emotions through their performances.

At its core, The Stone Boy is a film about the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit. It depicts a family struggling to come to terms with their loss, but ultimately finding comfort and healing through their relationships with each other. The film is a testament to the enduring bonds of family, even in the face of unspeakable tragedy.

Overall, The Stone Boy is a beautiful and moving film that touches on themes of grief, loss, and resilience. Christopher Cain's direction is understated and effective, allowing the talented cast to shine in their performances. Robert Duvall, Jason Presson, and Glenn Close deliver standout performances, imbuing their characters with a depth and nuance that elevates the film beyond its simple premise. For anyone seeking a thoughtful and moving drama, The Stone Boy is a must-see.

The Stone Boy is a 1984 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.