A River Runs Through It Essay

A River Runs Through It, directed by Robert Redford, portrays the idyllic life of the Mclean brothers, Paul and Norman, in rural Montana. The boys bond in childhood through fist fights with their peers, conversations about the future but primarily through their devotion to fly fishing. The bond is soon broken as the boys transition into adult life, Norman leaving for college at Dartmouth and Paul remaining in Montana as a reporter, their life decisions after the depart reflect how polar opposite they truly are. Paul and Norman Mclean both lose their connection to their family, Paul’s detachment is forced, fueled by rebellion and his constant need for attention, while Norman gradually fades away while beginning manhood and his career. Children …show more content…
Far from just any afternoon of bad dad jokes, Minister John Mclean trained the boys with strict techniques and an unbreakable rhythm. Transitioning into the teenage years, Paul becomes accustomed to the timeless rebellious cliche of youth and becomes known by Norman for his change in rhythm. This break in his father’s rules is a mere metaphor for the break in their relationship as Paul seeks a life away from routine. Norman’s obedience to his father’s traditional fly fishing does not waver as Paul begins to distance himself. His absolute belief in technique helps Norman to remain loyal but never allows him to experiment to his own liking. His comfort keeps him at an equilibrium but restricts his ability to truly experience the thrill of fly fishing. There are many factors in the separation of families; death, age, relocation, the detachment is inevitable. The Mclean brothers distance from family, although originating from different factors, becomes apparent as they achieve adulthood and begin lives of their own. Their lives branch off in different directions but stem from the disconnection with their family, their church and their