Stand by Me
*“| never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve. Jesus, does anyone?”
*
Today 39 year ago stand by me has a limited release.
This in my opinion is one of the greatest coming of age stories in film. From the writing of King to the directing of Reiner it all works perfectly.
The casting of the boys is amazing you feel the characters fit the actors so well, their chemistry and talent can’t go unnoticed to portray these complex characters to show kids do know what’s going on we understand the world while still just trying to get by understanding the world, others, but also ourselves and they did it so beautifully. King knew what he was writing, the impact of one short story to one of the best films ever made it isn’t just a 80s teen film it’s deep and emotional that we can relate to in one way or another, a film to hold onto, remember, grow with.
*Gordie: I'm no good. My dad said it. I'm no good.
Chris: He doesn't know you.
Gordie: He hates me.
Chris: He doesn't hate you.
Gordie: He hates me!
Chris: No! He just doesn't know you.*
I think I was about ten the time I first watched Stand By Me and for the past four years it has been my favourite film even from first watching it cut on tv as I wasn’t allowed to watch the proper version but it’s one that I felt so strongly even now I feel I understand it more, I could watch it when ever and never get bored.
It is one film that doesn’t make me cry but makes me feel heavy, i feel this immense weight like inside seeing River Phoenix cry now that was talent he played Chris Chambers so well.
I read The Body last year I understand why King was so happy with the adaptation because it was done right I mean minor changes and differences but overall it in my opinion is one of the best book to film adaptation I’ve seen just such a heartwarming emotional friendship film that depicts growing up the loss of innocence and changes.
*Chris: I'm never gonna get out of this town am I, Gordie?
Gordie: You can do anything you want, man.
Chris: Yeah, sure. Give me some skin.
Gordie: I'll see ya.
Chris: Not if I see you first.*