Kate .C (crudgie95)

'You guys wanna go see a dead body?' When 13 year olds Gordie, Chris, Teddy and Vern decide to go find the dead body of a missing local teenager, not only do they have the time of their lives, but they also discover new fears and an unbelievable strength they never knew they could possess. Equally as good-humoured as it is tragic, 'Stand By Me' is a rare cinematic experience that will probably never be equalled. Based on the brilliant Stephen Kings novella 'The Body' the films plot and script never loose focus or credibility, due to the talents of an amazing author, and an accurately translated screenplay by Raynold Gideon. Rob Reiner's direction is practically perfect; it's so simplistic and open, and manages to handle such sensitive material in a gentle and mature way, and is completely void of patronisation. Rather than trying to say to much with fancy camera angles or special effects, he simply lets the text speak for itself, making it all the more moving and powerful. His choice of iconic score also helps to create a heavily nostalgic atmosphere, and adds a real sense of fun and familiarity to the text. What really makes the film so perfect however, is the outstanding ensemble cast of young actors. Wil Wheaton plays Gordie in a sensitive, smart manner making him easy to identify with. Jerry O' Connell is hilarious as the hapless and dopey Vern. He brings so much to the film on a comedic scale, as does Corey Feldman who plays the crazed and eccentric Teddy Duchamp. It is River Phoenix however, who plays tough guy Chris, that really manages to perform on such a mature, adult level. His on screen friendship with Wheaton is so solid and complete, that it is impossible not to feel involved in the ensuing narrative. Each actor embodies an undeniable charm and charisma and a real sense of spirit that makes the film so much more realistic and enjoyable. 'Stand By Me''is essential viewing for everyone regardless of age, gender or film preference; and the tragedy of the film is heightened substantially with regards to the late River Phoenix, which ironically etches the film and its premise permanently on the memory. An absolute Classic, and totally unmissable.