Director Rob Reiner Says STAND BY ME Is the Film "That Means Most" to Him
In a recent interview with /Film, acclaimed director Rob Reiner opened up about his impressive filmography, revealing that amidst all of the incredible films that he’s made over the course of his career, the one film that holds a special place in his heart is his 1986 project Stand By Me. The coming-of-age classic, based on Stephen King's novella "The Body," is a deeply personal film for the director.
During the interview, Reiner was asked about his most underrated film, and he used the opportunity to share his feelings about Stand By Me. He shared why this particular film holds unparalleled emotional significance for him. The director emphasized that the film explored the universal theme of growing up.
“That's the one that means the most to me, that has the most emotional connection for me of all the films I've made. I don't know if it's my best, but it's the one that means the most to me. I was 12 in 1959. I had three other friends; I didn't go through what they did, but I also had the feeling of not knowing how my father felt about me.”
Because of that, Stand By Me holds a unique place in his heart. Stand By Me has been a favorite film of mine ever since I first saw it as a kid. This was a movie that inspired my love of storytelling and it also inspired my love of adventures, and throughout my life, I’ve always looked for opportunities to get family and friends together to go on some kind of adventure to connect with them. Not to go out looking for dead bodies, but you get what I’m saying!
The timeless coming-of-age film delicately explores the challenges and joys of adolescence. Set in 1959, the story follows four friends, Gordie, Chris, Teddy, and Vern, who embark on a journey to find the body of a missing boy named Ray Brower. As they traverse the Oregon woods, facing both physical and emotional obstacles, the film beautifully captures the essence of friendship, the uncertainties of growing up, and the realization that childhood innocence inevitably gives way to the complexities of adulthood.
Stand By Me is a heartfelt story about the indelible bonds formed during youth and the profound impact they leave on our lives. It’s hard not to see why the film means so much to Reiner.