Abiding at the Movies

“The Straight Story” (1999)

imdb Rating 8.0/10 G | 1h 52min | Biography, Drama | 3 November 1999 (France)

Based on true story, an old man makes a long journey by lawnmower to mend his relationship with an ill brother. Director: David Lynch Writers: John Roach, Mary Sweeney Stars: Richard Farnsworth, Sissy Spacek, Jane Galloway Heitz

Available on: Disney, Prime Video, Vudu

“Nothing Runs Likes a Deere” IMDB User Review: tfrizzell12 May 2004 A beautiful and very emotional movie experience as Oscar-nominee Richard Farnsworth (playing the real-life Alvin Straight) decides to travel on his old riding John Deere mower from Iowa to Wisconsin to see his ailing brother (Harry Dean Stanton) because his driver's license has been revoked, he doesn't like public transportation and he has no one else to drive him. The two brothers have not been on speaking terms for many years and the clock is literally ticking on one last chance for them to see one another and hopefully make amends for past mistakes. Sissy Spacek gives one of her finest performances as Farnsworth's slightly mentally disabled daughter and the supporting players are all real and heartfelt caricatures of America's heartland. Film- maker David Lynch quietly and methodically creates a G-rated family film that has deep messages for people of all ages and backgrounds. He paints a picture of America where the old ways of life are still the most important. Farnsworth was in excruciating pain throughout filming due to terminal cancer and terrible arthritis. Sadly, this would be his final performance as he died after his Oscar nod. He did become the oldest nominee ever in the Best Actor category, but really that will become trivial as time passes and his role will be the thing that shines brightly forever. .

Pastor Joe’s Comments and Questions No doubt your first response will be like mine, “Really? This movie isn’t really going anywhere.” But then as we are drawn in to Alvin’s story and what is behind his crazy idea to drive a lawn tractor 240 miles from Laurens, Iowa to Mt. Zion, Wisconsin, we become enthralled with Alvin’s wisdom of taking it slow at his own pace. He is not just on the way to visit his brother, he is meeting other people and there are moments of humor, pathos, danger and epiphany. It’s not just about the destination but encounters, the risks and blessings along the way. Sometimes you have to take a journey with someone to really appreciate them.

1. Alvin’s daughter and neighbors are concerned about his idea to drive a lawn-tractor to visit his brother. They want to help, but he insists on his plan. Why is this important?

2. Who are the people Alvin meets along the way and how are they blessed and changed for meeting each other? What does he learn about them and what do they learn from him?

3. What do we learn about Alvin as the journey unfolds?

4. What else did you like about the movie?

5. Because it is a true story, you could look up Alvin Straight on the web to learn more.

Let me know what you think of the movie by emailing me at [email protected]