My Own Private Idaho (1991)
1h 44m | PG-13
In this loose adaptation of Shakespeare's "Henry IV," Mike Waters is a hustler afflicted with narcolepsy. Scott Favor is the rebellious son of a mayor. Together, the two travel from Portland, Oregon to Idaho and finally to the coast of Italy in a quest to find Mike's estranged mother. Along the way they turn tricks for money and drugs, eventually attracting the attention of a wealthy benefactor and sexual deviant.
Director: Gus Van Sant
Studio: New Line Cinema
Genre: Drama
Video: 720p
Cast
River Phoenix
as Mike Waters
Keanu Reeves
as Scott Favor
James Russo
as Richard Waters
William Richert
as Bob Pigeon
Rodney Harvey
as Gary
Chiara Caselli
as Carmella
Reviews
Shakespeare meets street hustlers in a plot loosely inspired by Shakespeare's Henry IV part 1, Henry IV part 2 & Henry V. The film is both humorous and profound with River Phoenix's (Mike) shining & Keanu Reeves (Scott) also starring alongside some very memorable characters (Hans, Bob). I think it's probably of the best LGBT Films/ depictions of LGBT characters in film, & deservedly considered a cult classic. The offbeat film's authentic style coupled with its compelling, drifting story, make My own Private Idaho a must watch nearly 30 years after release.