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.
