The Abbotsford Film Society (AFS) screens David Lynch’s award-winning film The Straight Story on Friday, May 24 at The Banquet Room.
The film is based on a true story about Alvin Straight, a veteran of the Second World War. Upon learning that his estranged brother has suffered a stroke, Straight decides to visit him and make amends before he dies.
Alvin doesn’t have a driver’s licence so he decides to drive his 30-year-old John Deere lawn mower across Iowa and Wisconsin to get to his brother’s home.
AFS president Aaron Dawson said The Straight Story is a very human story and one that is all about the journey.
“It’s an epic story about forgiveness, compassion, and kindness,” he said. “Alvin’s determination to make this journey on his own terms is truly inspiring.”
The film garnered an Oscar nomination for Best Actor for Richard Farnsworth, who plays the role of Alvin Straight.
Farnsworth was the oldest actor to be nominated in that category at age 79, a record he held for 20 years until Anthony Hopkins was nominated at age 80. Farnsworth took the role because he was so moved by Straight’s story.
“What makes Farnsworth’s portrayal even more poignant was that he was himself terminally ill with bone cancer,” Dawson said. “He gives an incredible, honest, understated performance.”
Dawson said The Straight Story is for anyone who is looking for a feel-good film that is not over-sentimentalized but is truly inspirational.
Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the film starts at 8 p.m. at The Banquet Room (at Emmanuel Mennonite Church, 3471 Clearbrook Rd.)
Admission is $7 at the door. Guests are encouraged to use the Clearbrook Road entrance to the parking lot and enter on the north side of the building.
For more information, visit abbotsfordfilmsociety.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
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