The Straight Story

The least “Lynchian” of David Lynch’s films, and simultaneously a testament to his versatility and excellence. Even when creating something so far removed from his flagship aesthetic, Lynch was able to create a work of unparalleled excellence. The Straight Story lacks his typical extravagant creative flair, and instead offers poignant realism and a touching portrait of a man facing the end of the road. Alvin (Richard Farnsworth’s in the performance of a lifetime) is reckoning and reconciling with the past. To help heal old wounds, he embarks on a journey across America to see his brother. Unexpectedly, however, The Straight Story is rather “Lynchian” in its underlying message. It reminds us that David Lynch, an unreformed dreamer and visionary, was first and foremost a consummate humanist, who believed in the goodness of ordinary people and the beauty of humble life (as in Twin Peaks), examined his surroundings with tenderness and empathy (as in Elephant Man), and always carefully observed the surrounding reality – as in the acclaimed gem that is The Straight Story.

Katarzyna Kebernik

David Lynch (1946 – 2025) – an American director, screenwriter, producer and visual artist, born in Missoula, Montana. He studied painting in Philadelphia, before moving to Los Angeles to make films. He began production on his feature-length debut, Eraserhead, while still a student at the American Film Institute’s Centre for Advanced Film and Television Studies, which initially provided funding for the project. Lynch was one of the most original and influential cinema visionaries. His signature mix of surrealism, genre tropes and experimental narration found favour with a wide audience. Lynch’s films relied heavily on striking visual and soundtrack elements, which always function as integral parts of the complex structure of his works. In addition to directing, he has practised painting, photography, meditation and experimented with new media. A three-time Oscar nominee, Lynch was awarded the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for Wild at Heart (1990).