entertainment
‘James Dean has got nothing on that kid’: River Phoenix films
As Stand By Me is re-released for its 40th anniversary, we look at the late actor’s most intense, enduring roles – from a goofball boffin to a narcoleptic hustler
TL;DR
- The article ranks River Phoenix's film roles, starting from Circle of Violence (1986) to My Own Private Idaho (1991).
- Phoenix's performance in 'My Own Private Idaho' is highlighted for its boldness, with him co-writing dialogue and developing the character of a narcoleptic hustler.
- 'Running on Empty' (1988) is praised for earning him his only Oscar nomination, portraying a sensitive piano prodigy burdened by his parents' radical past.
- 'Stand By Me' (1986) is noted for its iconic final shot and Phoenix's evocation of a boy's inner tensions, with Ethan Hawke comparing him to James Dean.
- Other notable roles include 'Explorers' (1985) as a boffin, 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade' (1989) as a young Indy, and 'Dogfight' (1991) where he didn't shy away from a character's cruelty.
- The article touches upon his final, unfinished film 'Dark Blood' (1993/2012) and the circumstances of its completion after his death.