Stand by Me
After learning that a boy their age has been accidentally killed near their rural homes, four boys decide to go see the body. Gordie, Vern, Chris, and Teddy encounter a mean junk man and a marsh full of leeches, but they also learn more about one another and their very different home lives. Just a lark at first, the boys' adventure evolves into a defining event in their lives.
Critics Sentiment
Chris confides about the milk money and breaks down crying
Boys wade across pond and get covered in leeches
The film drops from Chris's emotional breakdown (9.1) to the visceral leech sequence (7.5) before building to the powerful climax.
Stand by Me maintains consistently high sentiment throughout, with reviewers praising its authentic portrayal of childhood friendship and standout performances, particularly River Phoenix. The film peaks during its most emotionally honest moments and concludes with universal critical acclaim for its poignant meditation on growing up. Critics consistently highlighted the balance of humor, heart, and unsentimental truth as the film's greatest strengths.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 32
Wil Wheaton
Gordie Lachance
River Phoenix
Chris Chambers
Corey Feldman
Teddy Duchamp
Jerry O'Connell
Vern Tessio
Kiefer Sutherland
Ace Merrill
Casey Siemaszko
Billy Tessio
Gary Riley
Charlie Hogan
Bradley Gregg
Eyeball Chambers
Jason Oliver
Vince Desjardins
Marshall Bell
Mr. Lachance
Frances Lee McCain
Mrs. Lachance
Bruce Kirby
Mr. Quidacioluo
William Bronder
Milo Pressman
Scott Beach
Mayor Grundy
Richard Dreyfuss
The Writer
John Cusack
Denny Lachance
Madeleine Swift
Waitress
Geanette Bobst
Mayor's Wife
Art Burke
Principal Wiggins
Matt Williams
Bob Cormier
Crew
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