One thing Disney has brought attention to with the advent of Disney+ is all the obscure films they have made over the years that feel unconventional compared to the company brand. Films like Recess: School’s Out or Flight of the Navigator were made by Disney but felt much different than the grand and magical movie that we’re used to seeing from the Mouse House. At one point, they even got iconic cult director David Lynch to direct film for them and it’s now coming to Disney Plus this April.
In October of 1999, Disney release the David Lynch-directed autobiography The Straight Story. The film is about Alvin Straight (Richard Farnsworth), a man who went on record for traveling from Iowa to Wisconsin all on a lawn mower. The film was unfortunately not a financial hit, making only $6 million dollars on a $10 million dollar budget. Yet it was a critical success and received praise for being a more laid back and subtle film compared to Lynch’s other movies, even if it was more family friendly than something like Eraserhead. The film even gained a nomination for the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and an Oscar nomination for Best Actor for Richard Farnsworth.
With the news of The Straight Story being on Disney+, more people will be able to access one of David Lynch’s more obscure films. It might unconventional for Disney, but the fact they are releasing a Lynch movie of all things will certainly get a lot of attention for those who want something new to watch on the service. If anything, Disney should be honored to have a film from a director as talented and unique as someone like David Lynch.
The Straight Story is set for release on Disney+ on April 3rd, 2020.
Leave a Comment