Blu-ray Review: “The River Why” is a Feast for the Eyes, Heartwarming for the Soul

The River Why, Available on DVD and Blu-ray
The River Why, Available on DVD and Blu-ray

Living, eating and breathing fishing is a guy’s dream, right? Fed up with eccentric family dynamics, 20-year-old Gus Orviston (Zach Gilford, Friday Night Lights) leaves home and embarks on a quest to spend most of his time fly-fishing. In doing so, he evolves from a socially awkward boy into a self-assured young man. Independent film “The River Why,” based upon the novel of the same name written by David James Duncan, is a leisurely journey following Gus’s coming-of-age.

“The River Why” is filmed in Oregon’s glorious great outdoors. Scenery is a feast for the eyes with proverbial babbling rivers, green vistas and plenty of fish. Just like a seasoned river, “The River Why’s” storyline has its bends and eddies yet it’s beautiful, authentic, heartwarming and sweet. Thankfully, it’s not overly gooey and sappy with its love storylines. (Yes, plural.)

Seeing the film has reinforced my love of nature and its inspired me to cast a line again, hug a tree or maybe even kiss a fish.

“The River Why” is a Green Film

Filmed in Oregon’s wilderness, filmmakers strove to keep an environmentally friendly set with the assistance of a “green” consultant. The green production was documented in the film, Green Lit, which was an SXSW Official Selection.

Have I mentioned the musical score? It totally rocks which is why I’m not surprised “The River Why” has been nominated for Best Original Score for an Indie Film by Hollywood Music in Media.

Nuts and Bolts About “The River Why”

In addition to Zach Gilford, the film has an all-star cast with Academy-Award winner William Hurt, Amber Heard, Kathleen Quinlan, Dallas Roberts and William Devane.

“The River Why” is rated PG-13 for some sensuality and partial nudity. Distributed by Image Entertainment, the 104 minute  film contains bonus interviews with cast and crew and is available on Blu-ray or DVD.  Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray is $29.97 and DVD is $27.97.

Disclosure: I received a review copy of “The River Why” but be assured, these are my honest opinions about the film.

Advertisements

Jenn

Jennifer A. Huber is an award-winning travel and outdoor blogger and writer in Southwest Florida. Originally from Buffalo, N.Y., a hiking trail led her to a career path in the tourism industry for more than 30 years. She spent a decade with a park management company in Yellowstone, Death Valley, and Everglades National Parks. She founded the travel blog, SoloTravelGirl.com with the goal of inspiring others to travel alone, not lonely. The unexpected death of her former husband in 2008 reminded her how short life is. His passing was a catalyst for sharing her experiences with the goal of inspiring and empowering others to travel solo. Jennifer holds a Travel Marketing Professional certification from the Southeast Tourism Society, is a certified food judge, member of the NASA Social community, and alum of the FBI Citizens Academy. When not traveling, she is either in the kitchen, practicing her photography skills, or road tripping with her dog, Radcliff.

Manatee in the Flamingo Marina in Everglades National Park, Fla., Jan. 14, 2024.
Adventure Destinations Featured Nature Travel

How Flamingo in Everglades National Park Won My Heart. Again.

Disclosure: Some posts on this blog may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. This is so I can support my traveling habit, my special-needs dog, and this blog. “The Everglades is a test. If we pass it, we may get to […]

Continue Reading
2024. One year means 366 opportunities.
Featured Nature Travel

Four Quirky Events I’m Excited About in 2024

Several events will make 2024 memorable but I’m looking forward to the quirky, fun stuff. Leap Day, a solar eclipse, an epic cicada emergence, and Smoky Bear’s 80th birthday top my list!

Continue Reading
Florida State Parks Annual Pass.
Budget Travel Featured Nature Travel

How to Get Your Florida State Parks Annual Pass for 50% Off! (By January 13, 2024)

Through the Great Outdoors Initiative, you can purchase your Florida State Parks Annual Pass for 50% off now through January 13, 2024.

Continue Reading