The Maclean brothers, Paul and Norman, live a relatively idyllic life in rural Montana, spending much of their time fly fishing. The sons of a minister, the boys eventually part company when Norman moves east to attend college, leaving his rebellious brother to find trouble back home. When Norman finally returns, the siblings resume their fishing outings, and assess where they've been and where they're going.
A skilled, careful adaptation of a much-admired story.
– Variety Staff,
Variety,
8 Nov 2007
fresh:
This may work for you if you settle at the outset for a nostalgic, all-American mood piece.
– Jonathan Rosenbaum,
Chicago Reader,
8 Nov 2007
fresh:
Here are two things I never thought I'd say: I like a movie about fly fishing, and Robert Redford has directed one of the most ambitious, accomplished films of the year.
– Caryn James,
New York Times,
20 May 2003
rotten:
Redford's movie is too little show and too much tell.
– Peter Travers,
Rolling Stone,
12 May 2001
fresh:
In its determination to emphasize character and thoughtful content over formulas and facile sensationalism, it's a movie that's proudly out of step with Hollywood trends.