The Stone Boy [HD]

Captures the timeless "feel" of rural life & attitudes
I loved this movie, not only because it is a sensitive and realistic account of one family's tragedy and lingering aftermath, but also because it truly captures the essence of life in rural America. Seeing it brought back memories of living on an Eastern Colorado farm, and of how the families formed real community, sharing their struggles and heartaches as well as happy times. These people are strong and often silent, drawing from within when a loved one dies rather than talking over problems or complaining incessantly about their sorrows. Support from the rest of the community comes in the form of quiet understanding, not trying to pry or get the mourners "to open up" but giving them time, space, and love. It might not be the way we would choose to handle a similar situation, but it is dead on as far as farm communities go. Most farmers face daily struggles the rest of us can't imagine: wondering if a sudden storm or pestilence will end their lifestyle and cost...

An intelligent, very moving film.
Robert Duval and Glenn Close are superb as the parents of "the stone boy". Based on a short story by writer Gina Berriault. Informed and sensitively directed, this is a great film. They don't come any better than this! A memorable, beautiful story. Don't miss it!

Superb quiet film
I saw this movie quite a few years ago and was deeply moved. It is a film that is quiet and slow, but that provides the patient viewer with innumerable rewards. The plot concerns the accidental death of the oldest son in the family and the blame placed on the youngest son for this death. Although the family does not directly blame the youngest son, he feels tremendous guilt and the family memebers slowly pull away from him and each other. The movie has a great feel for rural families and small-town life and doesn't provide any easy answers or excess sentiment. Look for Linda Hamilton in a small early role as a bus passenger.

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