Stand by Me Movie Review..

"Stand By Me" stars a young cast that includes Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Jerry O'Connell and Co-stars Kiefer Sutherland. It's directed by Rob Reiner, who later directed the heart-stopping thriller "Misery".

Based on a novel written by Stephen King, "Stand By Me" was nominated for an Oscar for Best Screenplay written by Bruce A. Evans and Raynold Gideon. This coming-of-age story centers on a group of young kids who venture on a quest to find a dead body. Along the way, they come across their violent rivals, played by Kiefer Sutherland and his gang, and find out the true meaning of friendship and the way of life.

This is a great adventure film with some spectacular scenes that become embedded in the mind. Most of these scenes involve moments where Gordy, Chris, Teddy, and Vern are all together on-screen, which is about eighty-five percent of the movie, while the other fifteen percent works extremely well also. Rob Reiner is a directer that can certainly get the most out of his actors, regardless of their age. Mixing just the right amount of humor, drama, and suspense, varnishing this movie as a minor gem.

"Stand By Me" is a great coming-of-age story and my personal favorite of Stephen King's Drama films. Such a well told story that boosted the careers of a talented group of youngsters who all ended up with somewhat successful careers. I didn't forget about Kiefer Sutherland, who adds more reality and suspense to the film as the havoc inducing freak. This deserves all the praise it has gotten over the years. The fact that the makers had the ability to put forth a movie that was honest, suspenseful, and full of heart to the DVD stacks of many critics and audiences is a marvelous achievement in cinema.

A truthful and overwhelming film that is sure to leave a lump in your throat. It struck a cord with it's viewers, even holding back on the violence and language enough to allow mature preteens to enjoy. This has some powerful moments and ones that are sure to stick in you memory. I recommend it to the very few who haven't discovered this tribute to friendship and growing up. It's truly a must-see movie. Ask anyone. 5/5 stars