Stand By Me (1986)

One of the classic films from the 1980’s, “Stand By Me”, is based on a Stephen King novel. I had always heard that the film was great, but I never had the opportunity to view it. Fortunately, during my weekly Film Club lesson last week we got the chance to watch it, and I’m very glad we did. The film left a permanent mark on my heart.

The film revolves around four boys who go off in search of the body of a missing teenager in the woods around their home town of Oregon. The group consists of Gordie, a shy boy, neglected by his parents after the death of his older brother, Chris, the leader of the group who comes from an abusive family, Teddy, the crazy one, and Vern, the wuss. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and discover different lessons about life and friendship. It includes a reflective look at growing up and really makes you miss the good old days of childhood.

Aside from the great story and characters, the film includes a fair amount of profanity, which is surprising because the main characters of the film are all pretty young. The film also includes some scenes of sexual language aimed at each other for ridicule. There are a few scenes of violence involving knives and a gun, but nothing gory. Drug use is also in some scenes - cigarette smoking by the younger children and alcohol consumption from the older lot.

It is an unforgettable film with an exciting and engaging story line which includes an incredible sense of nostalgia whilst at the same time handing out life lessons of coming of age and friendship.