The Straight Story

RECOMMENDATION:

DESCRIPTION:

A story based on true events. Eighty-year-old Alvin Straight, upon hearing about the illness of his brother with whom he has had no contact for years, sets off on a 300-mile journey full of unexpected encounters – on his small tractor/lawnmower.

David Lynch astonished the world with his simple, unpretentious, and profoundly humanistic film, which he himself ironically calls his “most experimental.” It is the only film in his body of work to receive a G rating (general audience) in the USA. Presented in the Main Competition at Cannes and nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor (Richard Farnsworth), it received a total of nearly 60 awards and nominations.

GALLERY:

LET’S TALK ABOUT:

Alvin Straight is 93 years old and sets off on a journey – what moved you the most about his story?

Would you be capable of taking on such a challenge?

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Alvin faced many obstacles from the start – how do you deal with adversity? What obstacles have you encountered recently?

Alvin also had to face critical opinions from others about his idea – do you have similar experiences?

What influence do other people’s opinions have on your decisions?

Whose opinion do you particularly care about?

Whose opinion do you trust?

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Alvin had a strong motivation – reconciling with his brother. Is forgiving difficult for you? Tell us about it.

Do you often find yourself apologizing? How does it make you feel?

If you were to embark on such a crazy challenge – what motivation would you need – in the name of what would you be willing to set off on such a journey?

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Motivation is one thing, but Alvin also needed determination to persevere – Are you a persevering person? Do you get discouraged easily or with difficulty?

What does your determination in various endeavors depend on?

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Alvin meets many people along the way. Each of these encounters is a unique event that changes the characters. Do you have such an experience – an encounter with another person that changed your and/or someone else’s life?

Do you believe that every encounter with another person can change your life for the better?

What do your friendships and acquaintanceships look like – are they a source of joy for you?

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Do you have difficulties building relationships with others? Tell us about them if you wish.

What do you think is a good way to get to know others and build good relationships with them?

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Alvin speaks about family in a very moving way, especially about siblings:

“Nobody knows you like a brother near your own age. He knows who you are and what you are, better than anyone on earth. The last time my brother and I met, we said some unforgivable things to each other, but I try not to think about that… My pride has a hard time swallowing this trip. I just hope it’s not too late… a brother’s a brother.”

What do you appreciate about your siblings/cousins?

What do you appreciate about your children/grandchildren (if you have them)?

Is there something you would like to change/improve in your relationships with your brother/sister/cousin?

What do you value about your grandparents?

What are you grateful to your parents for?

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List of values:
Altruism, Assertiveness, Selflessness, Safety, Closeness, Heroism, Patience, Goodness, Spirit, Empathy, Hospitality, Politeness, Generosity, Honor, Humor, Creativity, Loyalty, Wisdom, Courage, Love, Motivation, Hope, Reliability, Nonconformity, Responsibility, Bravery, Composure, Optimism, Openness, Passion, Beauty, Humility, Peace, Ingenuity, Sacrifice, Beauty, Truth, Friendship, Punctuality, Joy, Reason, Integrity, Heart, Strength, Consistency, Respect, Sincerity, Happiness, Transcendence, Care, Honesty, Moderation, Orderliness, Mindfulness, Gratitude, Faith, Credibility, Knowledge, Faithfulness, Freedom, Sensitivity, Support, Compassion, Imagination, Perseverance, Commitment, Life