The River Why

Gus is a young man who is tired of hearing his parents arguing in his family. He leaves home in search of peace and tranquility, slowly feels the need for friendship and meets neighbors and fishing friends. Where a friend discusses and gives books to study. A personal growth film, so it's a must see.

I have lived in Portland, Oregon since 1981. Last night I viewed The River Why.

I have not read the book and, in fact, may do so having now seen the film. While I don't think this is a life changing experience, I did find the movie charming and loved the cinematography and the scenery of Oregon. The actors all do a good job and the film is thoughtful. The score is also well done. Watch the credits and you will hear a lovely version of "Fishing Blues".

I would definitely recommend a viewing of this heartwarming film. Again do not expect anything earthshaking here but an enjoyable time.

Gus Orviston (Zach Gilford) is born of an angling family. His father Henning (William Hurt) is a famous writer. His parents often argue over fishing. After one such fight, he leaves to fish on his own. He's taken with fish activist Eddy (Amber Heard). After discovering a dead body, he befriends incompetent fisherman Titus (Dallas Roberts).

The biggest problem with this movie is the lack of hurdles. It makes the story without drama. There is never any obstacles to his family life or the romantic life. There is only one on-screen parental fight before he leaves home. As for the romance, it's cute and sexy but without drama. I don't see any over-arching philosophy being espoused by his non-struggle. This is the lightest of coming-of-age romantic movie.

"For me happiness would never be found anywhere but on the banks of a river." After a fight with his father pushes him to far, Gus (Gilford) decides to leave everything and just fish. While living in a cabin and fishing 16 hours a day he runs into Eddy (Heard) on the river and begins to rethink his life choices. I'll start by saying that this is a very good movie, but very girly. Think "River Runs Through It" but much more of a love story. The scenery is great, but unless you are a hardcore fisherman it will be tough to get through the long sequences of fishing and fly tying that are scattered throughout. The acting is great, and William Hurt does a great job even though he is only in it for a little while. This is a movie worth watching, but don't expect anything too exciting. Overall, a good movie with great acting that is much more of a love story then "River Runs Through It". I give it a B.

*Also try - River Runs Through It

The majority of this movie was filmed on our family homestead in Western Oregon. The location is not mentioned, nor is the family, by request. However, this gives the story special meaning to the descendants or my Great Great Grandparents who homesteaded the valley.

It is interesting to see how people find meaning in life, events, and what is important in life. While this is not a story about our family, there are traits that replay in all people, and families.

If it does not help you understand yourself, it may help give you insight into those around you.

Obviously today the particular cabin in the movie is know to us as the River Why Cabin.