A River Runs Through It

Nothing perfect lasts forever. Except in our memories.

1992 • 123 min • Drama

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Synopsis

The Maclean brothers, Paul and Norman, live a relatively idyllic life in rural Montana, spending much of their time fly fishing. The sons of a minister, the boys eventually part company when Norman moves east to attend college, leaving his rebellious brother to find trouble back home. When Norman finally returns, the siblings resume their fishing outings, and assess where they've been and where they're going.

Our family guide

Best from age 12

Movie Knight Score

1218 reviews

100 Reviewers · 1 · 51%
70 Audience · 1217 · 49%

Based on a true story, this drama follows two brothers growing up in rural Montana in the early 20th century, sharing a deep love for fly fishing. As they become adults, their paths diverge, with one embracing responsibility and the other struggling with a wilder, self-destructive nature, leading to heartfelt family struggles.

Violence & peril: 3/10
Language: 2/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking: 4/10
Romance & sensuality: 2/10
Scary moments: 1/10

Heads up

Some fighting and violence
Gambling and heavy drinking
Brief sensuality
Themes of loss and tragedy

What it models well

Strong family bonds
Impact of personal choices
Brotherly love and grief
Connection to nature

Talk about it after

How family members can be different
Dealing with loss and grief
The lasting power of home
Understanding addiction

Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for A River Runs Through It. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.

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Top billed cast

Director: Robert Redford • Crew: Richard Friedenberg, Norman Maclean

Trailers & clips

Reviewer notes

RecommendedTrusted family reviewers
_**Two brothers growing up in Montana during the 20s**_ After WW1, two brothers come-of-age in the Missoula area of Montana; one prudent (Craig Sheffer) and the other imprudent (Brad Pitt). Tom Skerritt plays their father, a wise Presbyterian minister, while Emily Lloyd plays the sensible son’s potential romantic interest.…
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