Like many others, I have spent time reflecting on David Lynch’s extraordinary legacy and career since his death. Known for his distinct Lynchian style, which fuses surreal, dreamlike imagery with unsettling violence, Lynch’s body of work subverted traditional cinematic norms.
His influence is evident in iconic films and shows like “Blue Velvet,” “Mulholland Drive,” “Dune (1984)” and “Twin Peaks,” works that have been endlessly imitated and referenced by other filmmakers. Yet, while Lynch’s fame is tied to his haunting and dark, unconventional films, his 1999 Disney film, “The Straight Story,” with its quiet and straightforward story, is an exception to everything associated with him.
“The Straight Story” depicts 73-year-old Alvin Straight’s (Richard Farnsworth) journey to visit his estranged and dying brother, Lyle (Harry Dean Stanton). From his home in Iowa, Alvin leaves for his brother’s home in Wisconsin over 240 miles away on a John Deere lawn mower, traveling at a maximum speed of 5 mph.
What might seem like a rather unassuming premise becomes a profound and moving narrative as Alvin encounters new faces along the way. “The Straight Story” is often labeled a road trip movie, but this fails to capture the film’s emotional depth. The film focuses on themes of regret, mortality and family.
Richard Farnsworth delivers a phenomenal performance as Alvin, bringing a quiet authenticity and emotional depth to the character. His portrayal is natural and understated, creating a man who has lived a long life filled with joy and regret.
Farnsworth’s brilliance in the role lies in his subtlety of expressions and small gestures, which capture reflective moments and showcase the Alvin’s melancholy and introspective journey for Alvin. It’s no wonder his performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, though it’s a surprise that he didn’t take home the win.
Sissy Spacek also shines as Alvin’s daughter, Rose, bringing complexity to their relationship and adding to Alvin’s character. Her portrayal is sweet and heartfelt, complementing Farnsworth’s restrained performance. While Harry Dean Stanton’s role as Alvin’s brother, Lyle, is brief, his appearance carries heavy weight that provides a strong conclusion to Alvin’s journey. The cast elevates the film with their exceptional performances.
Longtime Lynch collaborator Angelo Badalamenti delivers an incredible score that perfectly complements the film’s tone and narrative. The simple and meditative score evolves and changes alongside Alvin’s journey, following his reflections on the past and the anticipation of seeing his estranged brother. Badalamenti’s music shines particularly in the film’s sweeping shots of the Midwestern landscapes, reminiscent of the “Twin Peaks’” iconic opening. The score perfectly fits the vast, open world, filling it with emotion, all without overpowering the dialogue or overshadowing the film’s more quiet and intimate moments.
The people Alvin encounters throughout the film reveal its profound emotional depth, highlighted by moments like his conversation with a pregnant hitchhiker or his dark reflection on a battle in World War II. The supporting characters are genuinely kind and empathetic, offering help and connection to Alvin as he continues his journey. These heartwarming interactions help to balance the film’s more reflective and somber moments.
In an interview, David Lynch noted that contrary to popular opinion, “The Straight Story” doesn’t differ from the rest of his filmography, and I’d have to agree. The film is the culmination of Lynch’s career, showcasing many of his interests. Much of his work is human-focused, whether it’s Alvin’s bond with his daughter Rose or the strangers he meets along the way. The themes of mortality and regret in “The Straight Story” are concepts Lynch has often explored in his other works.
Similarly, his recurring fascination with small-town life is present here, albeit in a more understated form than in “Twin Peaks” or “Blue Velvet.” As distinct and unconventional as the film may seem compared to his other movies, it is undeniably Lynch. It carries some of his trademarked interests, even if it may lack his Lynchian style.
“The Straight Story” is a profound and moving film filled with heartfelt moments and a cast of endearing characters that Alvin encounters on his journey. It’s undeniably a tearjerker and a story of connection and forgiveness.
Farnsworth’s extraordinary performance and Badalamenti’s score alone make it a must-watch, but the film offers much more. While it may not fit the conventional mold of a Lynch work, it is one of David Lynch’s best films and a testament to his versatility as a filmmaker. I wholeheartedly recommend it and am confident anyone who watches will find something meaningful within its 1 hour and 40 minute runtime.