A classic story of growing up and apart.
When it was first released to movie theaters back in 1986, the Rob Reiner film "Stand By Me" became an instant cinematic classic. Taking place during the summer of 1959 in a small town called Castle Rock, Oregon, the film tells the story of 4 young boys who are also good friends together. On the final weekend of summer vacation before their return to school, they decide to go out and search for another young boy who was tragically killed while picking berries. The quartet consists of "Tough Guy" Chris (River Phoenix) "Eccentric" Teddy (Corey Feldman), "Quiet" Gordie (Wil Wheaton) and "Scardy-Cat" Vern (Jerry O'Connell), who have one unforgettable adventure while searching for the deceased boy. The film is told through the recollections of the main character, Gordie LaChance, a freelance writer. The older Gordie is portrayed by Richard Dreyfuss. It describes how his friend Vern overheard his older brother discussing the body of a missing boy after accidentally coming across it in the woods with his friend. The film contrasts the four main characters, who are depicted as well-meaning and relatively virtuous, with a gang of bullies called the "Cobras", who are led by local hood John "Ace" Merrill (brilliantly portrayed by Kiefer Sutherland). In addition to the fine story and the memorable characters, the film also boasts a great soundtrack consisting of several classic early rock and roll oldies, which are presented at various points of the film. One of the most enduring "coming-of-age" stories to ever grace the big screen, "Stand By Me" is a classic cinematic experience.Read full review