Watch The Straight Story

"The Straight Story" is a 1999 film directed by David Lynch, known for his surreal and eerie films like "Blue Velvet" and "Twin Peaks". However, "The Straight Story" is not like any of his previous works. It's a heartwarming and inspiring film about an elderly man named Alvin Straight, played by Richard Farnsworth, who embarks on a journey to see his younger brother Lyle, played by Harry Dean Stanton, after he suffers a stroke.

The movie is set in rural Iowa in 1994, and Alvin is an aging man who lives a peaceful life with his daughter Rose, played by Sissy Spacek. One day, he receives news that his brother Lyle, who lives in another state, has suffered a stroke. Alvin longs to see his brother one last time and decides to make the journey on a lawn mower.

Yes, you read that right. Alvin travels on a lawn mower, and that's what makes this movie unique. He is physically unable to drive a car due to his bad eyesight and declining health. Alvin is determined to make the trip, even though it's a long, exhausting and dangerous journey on a slow-moving vehicle. Along the way, he meets various people, including a runaway teenager, a pregnant woman, and a friendly elderly couple, who all offer him their help and support. Alvin's kindness and wisdom have a profound impact on everyone he meets.

The movie is a road trip film, but it's not like any other road trip film you've seen. It's slow and meditative, with stunning cinematography of the Iowa countryside. Alvin's journey represents his desire to make amends with his brother and reconcile with his past mistakes. The movie explores themes of family, forgiveness, and mortality. It's a touching and emotional film that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

Richard Farnsworth's performance as Alvin Straight is exceptional. He was an actor and stuntman for over thirty years before appearing in this movie, and it shows in his performance. He embodies Alvin's physical and emotional exhaustion, as well as his quiet determination and resilience. Sissy Spacek's performance as Rose is also noteworthy. She captures the complexity of a daughter who loves her father deeply but is frustrated by his stubbornness and reluctance to ask for help.

"The Straight Story" was a departure for David Lynch, but it became one of his most beloved films. He approached the project with a sincere and straightforward vision, and it paid off. The movie received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Screenplay. It's a testimony to the power of storytelling and the importance of human connection.

In conclusion, "The Straight Story" is a beautiful movie that is unlike any other film in David Lynch's canon. It's a simple and understated film that showcases the power of human warmth and compassion. It's a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, we can find beauty and meaning in life. If you're looking for a heartwarming and inspiring movie, "The Straight Story" is a must-see.

The Straight Story is a 1999 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0 and a MetaScore of 86.