My Own Private Idaho
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.
Critics Sentiment
Mike confesses his love to Scott around campfire
Scott falls in love with Carmela in Italy
The film peaks emotionally with Mike's vulnerable love confession to Scott, then drops significantly during the underdeveloped Italian romance subplot.
Critics consistently praise River Phoenix's powerhouse performance and Van Sant's artistic vision, particularly in the film's emotional peaks. The experimental Shakespeare adaptation divides reviewers, with some finding it pretentious while others appreciate its ambition. The film maintains strong sentiment through its exploration of love and abandonment, despite some pacing issues in the middle act.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 50
River Phoenix
Mike Waters
Keanu Reeves
Scott Favor
James Russo
Richard Waters
William Richert
Bob Pigeon
Rodney Harvey
Gary
Chiara Caselli
Carmella
Michael Parker
Digger
Jessica Makinson
Denise
Flea
Budd
Grace Zabriskie
Alena
Tom Troupe
Jack Favor
Udo Kier
Hans
Sally Curtice
Jane Lightwork
Robert Lee Pitchlynn
Walt
Mickey Cottrell
Daddy Carroll
Wade Evans
Wade
Matthew Ebert
Coverboy
Scott Patrick Green
Coverboy / Cafe Kid
Tom Cramer
Coverboy
Vana O'Brien
Sharon Waters
Crew
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