Review of My Own Private Idaho (1991) by Douglas R — 20 Mar 2010

My Own Private Idaho was a first time experience for the director and his two actors. Up to this point, Gus Van Sant had only directed two films, and Idaho would be his first film to be green lighted by a major studio. Having pitched the idea before, studios declined to get involved with the film because it was deemed too much of hassle.A young Keanu Reeves was already established in Hollywood, however it was different Reeves that we've known to love (or hate). Reeves garnered most of his fame by playing Ted in the series Bill and Ted. River Phoenix was also already an established name, but had yet form his career as an adult actor. Phoenix had already been in nine films by the time he was 20, most of which were geared towards a younger audience. Idaho would mark the first time both actors would venture out of their comfort zones.

Van Sant's Idaho is loosely based on Shakespeare's Henry IV, and follows the story of two friends who sell their bodies for profit in the muddy environment of Northwestern America. Mike, a gay street hustler, suffers from narcolepsy and consistently conjures up visions of his mother and a fake childhood. His best friend Scott, who is also a gay street hustler, comes from a different background. His father is a very wealthy man, and Scott himself will inherit a large sum of money at the age of 21. However, he chooses to live on the street and commit acts of homosexuality as form of rebellion. Eventually, the duo finds themselves traveling across the world in search of family. The film deals with themes of brotherhood, love, betrayal and the pursuit of finding a home in any way or form. There is no climatic battle, no villain in the film, or any of the other forms of struggle that Hollywood implements in films. Instead, Van Sant relies on the conflicts that arise out of the journey that many young adults encounter.

Unlike other Van Sant films, Idaho is not as easily accessible. Some will find the dialogue driven film boring and the theme of homosexuality repulsive. Those going in with an open mind will find themselves immersed in the characters drawn up by Van Sant and portrayed by the actors. Phoenix gave an Oscar worthy performance and solidified his presence in Hollywood as an adult actor. Reeves also puts in a solid performance, though some of his known mannerisms and delivery tend to bog down certain scenes. Idaho is a great independent film that will entertain and move certain members of the audience. Though not Van Sant's best work, it did lay the ground work for what many consider his Magnum Opus in Good Will Hunting.