My Own Private Idaho

My Own Private Idaho

1991-02-01 1h 44m R
Drama
7.1
User Score
1157 votes

"Wherever, whatever, have a nice day."

Overview

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.

Gus Van Sant

Director

Gus Van Sant

Writer

Top Billed Cast

Movie Details

Status

Released

Original Language

en

Budget

$2,500,000

Revenue

$6,400,000

Runtime

1h 44m

Release Date

1991-02-01

Recommendations

Reviews

WilsonWatches

WilsonWatches

2021-03-28T12:02:17.520Z

Shakespeare meets street hustlers in a plot loosely inspired by Shakespeare's Henry IV part 1, Henry IV part 2 & Henry V. The film is both humorous and profound with River Phoenix's (Mike) shining & Keanu Reeves (Scott) also starring alongside some very memorable characters (Hans, Bob). I think it's probably of the best LGBT Films/ depictions of LGBT characters in film, & deservedly considered a cult classic. The offbeat film's authentic style coupled with its compelling, drifting story, make My own Private Idaho a must watch nearly 30 years after release.