Review of Stand by Me (1986) by Simon H — 06 Jun 2014

Based on the novel "The Body" by Stephen King, Stand by Me was one of those films that I had heard of but never used to have any real interest in it. I continued to hear good things about it and I eventually decided to grab a cheap copy of it with the plan to watch it sometime to see if it was really as great as I heard it to be. When this "quest" then came to mind, I decided there was no better film to start off than Stand by Me. The DVD had been hanging around in that cupboard for years never seeing the light of day. I naturally assumed it would be good but never expected it to be anything special to myself personally. Oh, how wrong I was. As soon as it finished, I realised I had just witnessed one of the greatest films made.

Firstly the cast is nothing but perfect. Kiefer Sutherland as Ace Merrill excels at really making the audience hate him. You completely forget about his Jack Bauer alter-ego and can't help yourself from despising the character. Richard Dreyfuss bookends the film as an older version of the lead character and young John Cusack also pops in scenes which are sure to make you smile. But, it is the four young stars who really jump out at you. Will Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman and an unrecognisable Jerry O'Connell are such naturals that you forget they are even acting. They are all full of talent at such a young age and are perfect for the roles. They blend together in a way that you would think they had been close friends for years.

The film boasts a well written, easy to follow script with some really clever and humorous lines. Dialogue flows so perfectly that it feels like you are watching someone else's conversation. With scenery so beautiful, you at times wish you was on the journey with them.

No matter the age, you will relate to the characters featured. The interaction between the four boys and the message about friendship is so true to life, you will end up longing for those years once again.

Stand by Me is a film that I wish I chose to watch years ago, and I know is a movie I will be seeing many more times in the near future. It's a movie that will make you smile from start to finish. Anyone with a heart will not get to the end without feeling some sadness, especially when Ben E. King's "Stand By Me" starts up. It also can't help but make you reflect on your past, as well as look to the future. It is only unfortunate that the film showcases what a standout career River Phoenix could have had.

This film teaches you so many lessons and is highly recommended to everyone.