The Straight Truth
Lynch Tells a New American Tale

Alvin Straight isn't one to give in. When his physical problems prevented him from driving a car to visit his sick brother, he set off on his lawn mower and became an American legend. In The Straight Story, his true story of determination is captured in a beautiful family film that speaks to the heart of America.

Afflicted by poor eyesight and weak hips, Alvin (played by Richard Farnsworth) isn't as independent as he used to be. But when he gets a phone call that his brother has had a stroke, Alvin begins searching for a way to cross the miles (and the years) separating him and his brother. Ultimately, he decides to ride his lawn mower.

What could have been a very silly movie about a man on his lawn mower, turns into a story of determination, courage, and American ingenuity. Alvin is every man, fighting to be self-reliant despite the odds stacked against him. As he travels across Iowa, he meets people, dispenses his rural wisdom, and affects lives.

Farnsworth is excellent in his portrayal of Alvin. He comes across as practical, but willing to take a risk. Alvin never raises his voice, and his demeanor is just as quiet and calm. Farnsworth had an advantage to playing Alvin. Like the character, Farnsworth has weak hips and must use a cane to walk.

In addition to Farnsworth, Sissy Spacek does a wonderful job playing Alvin's daughter Rose. Rose, afflicted with a speech impediment, is hard to understand at times, but Spacek makes up for her lack of verbal skills by emoting with her body language and her eyes. Harry Dean Stanton appears as Alvin's brother, Lyle.

David Lynch (best known for his surreal efforts like Lost Highway and television's "Twin Peaks") directs this wholesome family movie, transforming it into something special. His sweeping vistas of Iowa cornfields and rolling hills is truly picturesque. Most notable to me are his transitions, as when a small campfire at night fades into the rising sun at dawn. Absolutely breathtaking!

Alvin Straight has become something of an American folk hero. Perhaps someday, as the stories of John Henry and Paul Bunyan are told, people will remember the story of one man, his lawn mower, and a journey across Iowa.

MY RATING: 10 out of 10.

RATED:
RUN TIME: 111 min.

The Straight Truth Lynch Tells a New American Tale

The Straight Truth
Lynch Tells a New American Tale