Pros: An intriguing story of the stubborn, elderly Alvin Straight (Richard Farnsworth) who insists on making amends with his brother and as his eyesight is so bad, he can't drive, he rigs a John Deere lawn mower with a trailer and sets out for the 260 mile journey, so the story is simple but fascinating. Farnsworth is also a revelation. Sissy Spacek provides great support as his daughter and caretaker who has a bad stutter.
Cons: Though the plot portrays some of his struggles along the way, I can't believe that he would be hauling the supplies to butcher a deer and you also never see him go to the bathroom or drink a beverage until the end when he finally splurges on a beer. Also, there were no minorities whatsoever.
Recommend: Yes
Grade: B+
Side Notes:
-Farnsworth's best scene is when he randomly meets up with another World War II veteran and explains how he accidentally shot his scout, thinking it was a wayward German soldier and how that still haunts him to this day.
-Spacek's Rose lost custody of her children due to the state misconstruing her mental capabilities, but where was there father? He's never mentioned.
-It is also surprising that no one ever had a problem with Alvin just camping for the night on their property.
-Smoking is a disgusting habit, just saying.
-We never learn why there was a rift between brothers.
-Harry Dean Stanton has a cameo as Alvin's brother, Lyle. He's great in his teeny, tiny role.
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