The multi-talented James Franco has taken a work of cinematic art, (My Own Private Idaho) and created another work of art. This is not really a documentary, but rather a movie with a linear story, similar to the original, but with many differences. Phoenix' character Mike was always more interesting than Scott (Keanu Reeves,) and Idaho really was River's film. So Franco gives fans what we want, by shifting the focus to Mike's character, utilizing absolutely incredible new footage of River Phoenix to flesh out his character. In order to do this, Reeves scenes are kept to a minimum, and other characters like Bob are strictly in the background. What we get in it's place is a sort of study of male hustlers and street kids living on the streets of Portland and Seattle, and this version is very reminiscent to the equally fine "Streetwise" from Martin Bell. In this version, Mike no longer suffers from narcolepsy, and he has a girlfriend. For 'Idaho' fanatics, this recreation is an absolute, mind blowing experience in that we get to see all the characters we have always loved, in entirely new situations, and from different angles. It is a revelation. I'm also thrilled to see the amazing new scenes of actor Rodney Harvey, who met an early demise in a similar way as River. He winds up working as a hot dog vendor in the park...a HOT DOG VENDOR. It was nice to find out the fate of these minor characters, and to see that they all made out okay in the end. In this version, everyone makes it to the other side, except for Mike, who doesn't make it, and the fact that he's the only one makes it even sadder. Anyway James Franco has performed a miracle with his reworking of an iconic film, and fans should be grateful for this incredible opportunity to go back in time, and see an old favorite, for the first time.
Review of My Own Private River
