Rachel River

Other comments notwithstanding, this is a very good film. Literate, understated, atmospheric, with good understanding of the human condition, and sympathetic treatment of character. Definitely not a film for action freaks, but a treat for those who appreciate depth and characterization. A solid 8.

I am at a complete loss as to why anyone, aside from brain-dead action movie fans, would dislike this small gem of a film. I saw "Rachel River" at the US (now Sundance) Film Festival, and I--along with most the other festival-goers--found it a moving, thought-provoking examination of life in small-town America. It easily deserves the awards it won that year in Park City: the cinematography beautifully invokes the chill and alienation of mid-West America in the dead of winter, Viveca Lindfors gives a touching performance as an elderly woman looking back on her life, and Pamela Reed is haunting as a young woman living a life of quiet desperation in a bleak environment. "Rachel River" bears comparison to a number of other memorable and melancholy films about fading hopes and lost opportunities, films like "You Can Count on Me," "Loving," "The Sweet Hereafter," and "Summer Wishes, Winter Dreams."

I saw this film when it was first released, on the big screen in Los Angeles (in Century City's multi-plex, for those of you who know the city).

It was lovely. The audience, including me, was completely rapt. All these years later, I still remember scenes and images from Rachel River. Vivica Linfors is particularly strong here.

The biggest vote of endorsement came at the end of the film, when THE ENTIRE THEATER AUDIENCE spontaneously rose to their feet and gave the film a long STANDING OVATION.

Believe me, the times this happens with a jaded LA audience are few and far between. The film is that good - nuanced storytelling and performances, lovely cinematography, thoughtful and sensitive direction and editing.

I only wish it was available on Netflx. Maybe if enough of us request it Netflix will add it. This is one film that must not be lost to the dustbins of history.

If you want car chases, gunfights and explosions, this isn't the movie for you. If you enjoy the craft of simple storytelling, small town life and the picturesque nature of Sandstone Minnesota, well, then I think you should buy this movie.

Maybe the first commentator, Dave, is a 'terminator' type guy. If you are looking for fast cuts, lots of action and have a short attention span this movie is not for you. If you like slower, slice of life, meandering movies you will like this. I thought the acting was good and the story dealt with life's little uncertainties in a convincing way.