Common Sense Media Review
Beautifully filmed movie about family has mature themes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
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A River Runs Through It
What's the Story?
In A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT, Norman and Paul Maclean are raised by a Presbyterian minister father (Tom Skerritt) who taught them their schoolwork, religion, and fly fishing as though they were all one subject; all were taught strictly and thoroughly. Norman (Craig Sheffer), though more sober, loves the wild streak in Paul (Brad Pitt) that makes him "tougher than any man alive," but fears it will destroy him. And it does. While Norman becomes a professor of English literature and falls in love with Jessie Burns (Emily Lloyd), Paul becomes a reporter and gets into trouble drinking and gambling. Norman is called by the police to get Paul out of jail, and, ultimately, he's called again when Paul is killed.
Is It Any Good?
Based on writer Norman Maclean's autobiographical story of growing up in Montana, this is a moving, powerful drama that combines gorgeous cinematography with earnest, heartfelt performances. IA River Runs Through It isn't perfect, but its father-son themes (and all the fishing) have given it a special place in a lot of grown men's hearts.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about adaptations of stories into movies. What do you see as being the challenges in adaptation?
How was the culture of Missoula, Mont., in the early 20th century conveyed in A River Runs Through It?
This film focuses on two brothers who are opposites in many respects. How were these "opposite" qualities revealed as the film progressed? What are some other examples of movies in which two main characters are "opposites" of each other?
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 9, 1992
- On DVD or streaming : April 2, 2002
- Cast : Brad Pitt , Craig Sheffer , Tom Skerritt
- Director : Robert Redford
- Studio : Columbia Tristar
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Book Characters , Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Run time : 124 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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