My Own Private Idaho
From The Art and Popular Culture Encyclopedia
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My Own Private Idaho is a 1991 independent film written and directed by Gus Van Sant, loosely based on Shakespeare's Henry IV, Part 1.
Story
The film follows two street hustlers, Mike (River Phoenix) and Scott (Keanu Reeves), as they embark on a journey of personal discovery that takes them to Mike's hometown in Idaho and then to Italy in search of Mike's mother. Scott is based on Prince Hal, the son of the king in the Shakespearean history Henry IV. He is the son of the wealthy mayor of Portland, Oregon and claims his street behavior, which includes prostitution to male clients, is largely rebellion. Mike, however, is gay, narcoleptic and has no other means of support. The two develop a strong friendship that is tested by Scott's ambivalence to street life and his forthcoming inheritance, as well as Mike's romantic affection for his companion.
Cast
- River Phoenix as Mike Waters
- Keanu Reeves as Scott Favor
- James Russo as Richard Waters
- William Richert as Bob Pigeon
- Rodney Harvey as Gary
- Chiara Caselli as Carmela
- Michael Parker as Digger
- Jessie Thomas as Denise
- Flea as Budd
- Grace Zabriskie as Alena
- Tom Troupe as Jack Favor
- Udo Kier as Hans
- Sally Curtice as Jane Lightwork
- Robert Lee Pitchlynn as Walt
- Mickey Cottrell as Daddy Carroll
- Wade Evans as Wade
- Vana O'Brien as Sharon Waters
