My Own Private Idaho (1991)

My Own Private Idaho (1991)
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Gus Van Sant's dreamtime riff on Shakespeare's "Henry IV, Parts I and II" features River Phoenix as Mike Waters, a narcoleptic male hustler who is first seen drifting on a stretch of highway in Idaho. Mike shifts from Seattle to Portland, where he has taken up with Scott Favor (Keanu Reeves), who is also a hustler. The difference between them is Mike's sleepy state betrays an uncertain future, while Scott is ready to inherit a fortune from his father within a week. Mike feels a real affection for Scott, but Scott does not believe men can really love each other. Besides, Scott is mostly hustling as a means of slumming and killing time before he inherits his money. Mike, however, delusionally thinks Scott will continue with his life as a drifter after receiving his inheritance. Mike's belief is shared by the dregs of Portland, who live out of an abandoned hotel with their spiritual leader Bob (film director William Richert). They're convinced Scott's fortune will benefit them all, when in reality Scott has other plans. ~ Paul Brenner, Rovi

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Starring:
River Phoenix, Keanu Reeves, (more)
Director(s):
Gus Van Sant
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
R
Format(s):
DVD
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Synopsis of My Own Private Idaho

Gus Van Sant's dreamtime riff on Shakespeare's "Henry IV, Parts I and II" features River Phoenix as Mike Waters, a narcoleptic male hustler who is first seen drifting on a stretch of highway in Idaho. Mike shifts from Seattle to Portland, where he has taken up with Scott Favor (Keanu Reeves), who is also a hustler. The difference between them is Mike's sleepy state betrays an uncertain future, while Scott is ready to inherit a fortune from his father within a week. Mike feels a real affection for Scott, but Scott does not believe men can really love each other. Besides, Scott is mostly hustling as a means of slumming and killing time before he inherits his money. Mike, however, delusionally thinks Scott will continue with his life as a drifter after receiving his inheritance. Mike's belief is shared by the dregs of Portland, who live out of an abandoned hotel with their spiritual leader Bob (film director William Richert). They're convinced Scott's fortune will benefit them all, when in reality Scott has other plans. ~ Paul Brenner, Rovi

Theatrical Feature Running Time:
104 mins

Complete Cast of My Own Private Idaho


Director(s):
Gus Van Sant
Writer(s):
Gus Van Sant
Producer(s):
Gus Van Sant, Laurie Parker
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
R(Substance Abuse, Strong Sexual Content, Nudity, Profanity, Violence, Not For Children)
My Own Private Idaho Awards:
  • 1991 - Independent Spirit Awards - Best Film Music
  • 1991 - Independent Spirit Awards - Best Screenplay
  • 1991 - Independent Spirit Awards - Best Actor
  • 1990 - National Society of Film Critics - Best Actor
  • 1991 - Venice International Film Festival - Volpi Cup for Best Actor
Warning:  This product is intended for mature audiences only. It may contain violence, sexual content, drug abuse and/or strong language. You must be 17 or older to purchase it. By ordering this item you are certifying that you are at least 17 years of age.

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    Gary T.

    A unique film from Director Gus Van Sant, belonging to the genre of "re-imagined" Shakespearian tales which was en vogue at the time. Starring two young actors at the top of their careers in very unexpected roles. The drug and gay themes were and are off-putting to audiences who expected more traditional roles from Reeves and Phoenix. However, beyond the controversial theme, viewers are treated to some fine performances and good film-making. The cast is to be commended for accepting such unconventional parts. While there are some flat periods during the film's 105 minute run-time, overall the editing maintains a decent pace. Potential renters should understand that this is not a family film and is also most certainly "artsy". I would not recommend this film to the casual viewer, or even ( necessarily ) to fans of either Reeves, or Phoenix. Consider the negative user reviews before deciding to rent My Own Private Idaho.

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    Adolphe M.

    I did not like this movie. It was too slow and confusing to watch.

    Yes   |   No

     
    Sandra M.

    An adult movie that made us wonder if River Phoenix was acting or playing an individual he had become. He definitely was a drug addict to the 12th degree.

    Yes   |   No

     
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