This Is David Lynch’s Most Underrated Movie (And You Should Watch It)

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Legendary filmmaker David Lynch, known for his distinct and influential work in cinema, passed away recently at the age of 78. This sad news sparked an outpouring of tributes for the iconic creator and a renewed interest in his notable projects. Stream Twin Peaks on Pluto TV, and don’t forget to delve into some of his critically acclaimed films like Mulholland Drive, Blue Velvet, and Lost Highway. However, if you’re wondering which David Lynch movie is a must-watch, there’s one often overlooked—a film that deserves more recognition: The Straight Story. Make sure to add this unique and heartwarming tale to your watchlist.

In 1999, the movie “The Straight Story” was unveiled, marking a unique turn for director David Lynch, who is often recognized for blending strange and occasionally ominous elements with ordinary life and delving into the deeper aspects of human existence. Unlike his usual work, this film departs from these themes. “The Straight Story” is a biographical road drama based on the true account of Alvin Straight’s 1994 journey across Iowa and Wisconsin on a lawnmower to reconnect with his estranged brother. The narrative, similar to many Lynch projects, carries an unusual charm. Alvin embarks on this journey due to health issues preventing him from getting a driver’s license, but the focus is less on the destination or how he gets there and more on the journey itself. For Alvin, portrayed by Richard Farnsworth who received an Academy Award nomination for his performance in the film, the trip through the countryside provides encounters with various individuals and experiences that aid him in confronting his personal issues, demons, and undergoing a transformation.

In a surprising twist for many viewers, “The Straight Story” stands out among David Lynch’s films due to several unique aspects. To begin with, it is a G-rated Disney production, making it the only film in Lynch’s portfolio to receive such a rating. Unlike many of his other projects, this film lacks supernatural or ominous elements that are commonly found in Lynch’s work. Instead, it offers an unusually straightforward and simple narrative. However, despite abandoning some of the bizarre and surreal aspects, “The Straight Story” remains distinctively Lynchian in its exploration of familiar themes such as regret, fate, and life experiences. The film also delves into the examination of American culture, specifically rural Midwest small towns. In essence, it provides a contemplative view of human nature, much like many of Lynch’s other works, tackling sensitive subjects such as trauma, aging, and mortality within the context of a healing journey.

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Another perspective worth noting is how Director Lynch skillfully portrays the scenic charm of the American Midwest. Filmed in autumn, along the very roads Alvin Straight actually traveled during his lawnmower odyssey, it results in captivating scenes of falling leaves transforming colors. The movie isn’t just about Alvin confronting his personal issues to reconcile with his family; it’s also a visual narrative. As Alvin embarks on his journey, the film depicts the passage of time – Alvin’s actual trip lasted six weeks, starting in July 1994, when the seasonal transformation was at its peak. In parallel, Lynch beautifully illustrates the idea of change alongside Alvin’s story, infusing a sense of romanticism into both the setting and the subject matter without resorting to excessive sentimentality. Instead, The Straight Story can be seen as an earnest tribute to some of life’s most challenging aspects – one that values truth over mere kindness.

Fundamentally, David Lynch’s filmmaking revolved around narrating tales of humanity. His works, even those that were eerie or grotesque, delved into the complexities and intricacies of human nature. However, movies like “Blue Velvet“, “Lost Highway“, and “Mulholland Drive” explored the darker and disturbing aspects of humanity. Contrastingly, “The Straight Story” offers a unique perspective as it delves deeper than any of his other projects. The film presents a tender, minimalist, and sincere portrayal of perseverance and healing, offering a glimpse into the most complex part of being human – growth and healing. Ultimately, “The Straight Story” stands as Lynch’s most valuable gift to us, showcasing something breathtakingly beautiful about our shared humanity.

The Straight Story is streaming on Disney+.

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2025-01-25 16:39