The Cider House Rules
Homer is an orphan who was never adopted, becoming the favorite of orphanage director Dr. Larch. Dr. Larch imparts his full medical knowledge on Homer, who becomes a skilled, albeit unlicensed, physician. But Homer yearns for a self-chosen life outside the orphanage. What will Homer learn about life and love in the cider house? What of the destiny that Dr. Larch has planned for him?
Critics Sentiment
Rose stabs Arthur and he dies asking for suicide story
Wally comes back from Burma as a paraplegic veteran
The film drops significantly when Wally returns paralyzed, creating predictable melodrama, before recovering with Homer's emotionally satisfying return to the orphanage.
Critics consistently praised Michael Caine's performance and the film's visual beauty while noting some pacing issues in the middle act. The philosophical themes about personal choice versus imposed rules resonated strongly with reviewers. Despite some criticism of predictable elements and Maguire's romantic scenes, the film's emotional depth and moral complexity earned widespread critical appreciation.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 37
Tobey Maguire
Homer Wells
Charlize Theron
Candy Kendall
Michael Caine
Dr. Wilbur Larch
Delroy Lindo
Arthur Rose
Paul Rudd
Lt. Wally Worthington
Jane Alexander
Nurse Edna
Kathy Baker
Nurse Angela
Erykah Badu
Rose Rose
Kieran Culkin
Buster
Kate Nelligan
Olive Worthington
Heavy D
Peaches
J.K. Simmons
Ray Kendall
Erik Per Sullivan
Fuzzy
Paz de la Huerta
Mary Agnes
K. Todd Freeman
Muddy
Evan Parke
Jack
Jimmy Flynn
Vernon
Lonnie Farmer
Hero
Spencer Diamond
Curly
Skye McCole Bartusiak
Hazel
Crew
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