This scene! My god River Phoenix. I know, I know, we can’t comment on the acting talent because we’re writers. We’re looking at this from a writing perspective…but god, this kid was so good. What’s so special about this scene beyond River’s performance? It is the epitome of a relationship evolving and changing right in front of our eyes.
These two kids - teenagers - would have never allowed themselves to be this open and vulnerable in front of each other before this scene, but what brought them to this place? The situation at hand - the 2nd Act journey to find the body of Ray Brower. This is why Stephen King is a legend. Why he is one of, if not the best writers of our time. He used so many story elements that would never have the audience consider as a means to coming of age. These are teen boys out on an adventure, but slowly they see and feel just how macabre, dark, and emotional this search actually is. They think it’s just a summer camping adventure with buddies, but the experiences that such an adventure presents (the 2nd Act situation, if you want to get technical) allows these characters to open up, change considerably, become even better friends, and ultimately grow up.
The whole story is genius, but this scene…this scene and what Chris says and the story he tells…it sums all of it up. It sums up what it feels like to be a kid. It sums up what it feels like to be left behind. It sums up what it feels like to admit your worst fears. All themes and messages that Stephen King nails every time. His genius is in how many different ways he can present those messages.
So this scene…from Stand By Me.
This Scene...from Stand By Me