Review of The Straight Story (1999) by Aliya D — 21 Jul 2008

I love Iowa and Iowans! One of the great keys to telling a great story on film lies in not what is said and done, but often what isn't. This film is about a journey of the soul as a man goes home in his heart, in this dramatization of the true story of Alvin Straight, who drove a lawnmower over three-hundred miles through the state of Iowa and into Wisconsin, to see his brother, a stroke victim with whom he had not spoken for ten years.

David Lynch has woven a rich visual and emotional tapestry, all poignantly delivered with a gentle hand. Beautifully photographed, the lush vistas of the Midwest reflect Alvin's state of mind, underscoring the deeper meanings of what is really a spiritual journey, during which the past mingles with the present.

Lynch has taken a wistful, almost poetic approach throughout, which, together with the story is reminiscent of Ingmar Bergman's film, Wild Strawberries. Sissy Spacek, Richard Farnsworth and the rest of the cast give fully fleshed out and three dimensional characters.

The film is quietly moving without the slightest hint of sentimental seasoning. It earns its happy ending honestly.