The Straight Story

Last Updated on: January 20th, 2024

Here is everything you need to know about the amazing movie The Straight Story including casting, reviews, fun facts and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!

The Straight Story Description

The Straight Story (1999 Movie)

“Disney’s The Straight Story” is a heartwarming drama film released in 1999, directed by David Lynch. Unlike many other Disney films, it is a live-action movie, based on a true story.

The film follows Alvin Straight, played by Richard Farnsworth, an elderly man who lives in Iowa and learns that his estranged brother, Lyle, has suffered a stroke in Wisconsin. Alvin is unable to drive due to his poor eyesight and limited mobility, so he decides to embark on an extraordinary journey to visit his brother by driving his lawnmower across several states. Along the way, he encounters various people who help him and others who challenge him, but his determination and wisdom guide him through the trials of the road.

“The Straight Story” is a departure from Disney’s typical family-friendly fare, as it tells a more mature and introspective tale of family bonds, redemption, and self-discovery. Richard Farnsworth delivers a poignant and Oscar-nominated performance, capturing the essence of Alvin’s character and the emotional depth of the story.

The film received critical acclaim for its simple yet powerful storytelling and stunning cinematography, which beautifully captures the vast landscapes and Americana scenery along Alvin’s journey. It is a film that resonates with audiences due to its universal themes of human connection and the strength of the human spirit.

While not as widely known as some of Disney’s animated classics, “The Straight Story” stands as a testament to the studio’s ability to produce compelling and thought-provoking films beyond the realms of fairy tales and animated adventures. It remains an underrated gem in Disney’s filmography, reminding audiences of the power of compassion, perseverance, and the beauty of the human experience.




The Straight Story Cast
  • Richard Farnsworth: Alvin Straight
  • Sissy Spacek: Rose Straight
  • Harry Dean Stanton: Lyle Straight
  • Jane Galloway Heitz: Dorothy
  • Joseph Carpenter: Bud
  • Donald Wiegert: Sig
  • Ed Grennan: Pete
  • Jack Walsh: Apple
  • James Cada: Danny Riordan
  • Wiley Harker: Verlyn Heller
  • Kevin Farley: Harald Olsen
  • John P. Farley: Thorvald Olsen
  • Anastasia Webb: Crystal
  • Barbara E. Robertson: Deer Woman
  • John Lordan: Priest
  • Everett McGill: Tom
  • Dan Flannery: Doctor Gibbon


The Straight Story Crew
  • Director: David Lynch
  • Producer: Mary Sweeney, Neal Edelstein and Alain Sarde
  • Music: Angelo Badalamenti



Additional Details

  • Movie Studio:
  • Year Released: 1999
  • Type of Movie: Live-Action
  • Box Office: $6.2 million
  • Awards: Nominated Academy Award
  • IMDB Link

The Straight Story Trailer:




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About the Author

Craig Smith
I am founder and editor of DisneyNews.us. My passion for all things Disney goes pretty far back to my first trip to Walt Disney World in the mid-80's. I have since returned to the magical place more than 20 times. I started this site when I came to the realization that I spent a significant portion of my day reading articles about Disney and watching Disney content with my 8-year old, so it made sense that I would start sharing some of what I read and see and building a little community around it. Other interests include 80's nostalgia, vintage toys, video games, LEGO, Star Wars and tech gadgets. Other sites include DMR and VideoGamesStats.com.