The Straight Story

Name: The Straight Story
Director: David Lynch
Genre: Drama
Released: 1999-01-01
Duration: 112 min
Rating: 7.7
Cast: Richard Farnsworth, Sissy Spacek, Jane Galloway Heitz, Tracey Maloney, Dan Flannery

1999Dir. David Lynch1h 52m

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Runtime1h 52m

Released1999

Budget$10M

Box office$6.4M

DirectorDavid Lynch

About This Movie

The Straight Story is a quiet gem in Lynch's filmography, showcasing his ability to tell a grounded story. Richard Farnsworth is superb as Alvin, embodying a mix of stubbornness and vulnerability. The pacing is gentle, allowing you to soak in the landscapes of rural America. It’s all about reconciliation and the passage of time, with no flashy effects—just a man, his lawnmower, and a long journey. The cinematography captures the beauty of the Midwest, and Lynch's subtle touches keep it from feeling overly sentimental. It feels real, almost documentary-like, yet maintains that unique Lynchian flavor in its simplicity. A thoughtful reflection on family and the importance of closure.

Released by Buena Vista Home Entertainment in 1999.Shot on location in Iowa and Wisconsin, enhancing its authenticity.Features practical effects; no CGI used in the lawnmower scenes.Richard Farnsworth's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination.