The Straight Story(1999)
"A true story that proves a little determination goes a very, very long way."
Overview
A retired farmer and widower in his 70s, Alvin Straight learns one day that his distant brother Lyle has suffered a stroke and may not recover. Alvin is determined to make things right with Lyle while he still can, but his brother lives in Wisconsin, while Alvin is stuck in Iowa with no car and no driver's license. Then he hits on the idea of making the trip on his old lawnmower, thus beginning a picturesque and at times deeply spiritual odyssey.
David Lynch
Director
John Roach
Writer
Mary Sweeney
Writer
Top Billed Cast
Where to Watch
Stream
Rent
Buy
Powered by JustWatch
Popularity Trend
Media
Official 4K Restoration Trailer
Trailer
The Straight Story (1999) | Trailer
Trailer
THE STRAIGHT STORY - Official Trailer
Trailer
David Lynch On THE STRAIGHT STORY
Featurette
Social
Written on February 21, 2016
An absolute delight. From director David Lynch, The Straight Story finds the famous purveyor of the oblique on wonderfully mellow form. Story finds a superb Richard Farnsworth as Alvin Straight, an old boy long in the tooth who sets off across America on his lawn mower to visit his estranged brother. You see, he doesn't have a driving licence, so lawn mower is the viable form of transport.
Lynch and writers John Roach & Mary Sweeney have offered up a wry and astute observation of Americana. The journey Alvin takes involves him meeting a number of eccentrics and confused souls, which pitches Alvin as our conduit to a rich view of the life we have - or will - live. Culminating in a finale that rewards anyone with an intelligent soul. The message is clear.
A beautiful film for the beautiful of heart. 9/10
