Friday, December 10, 1999

PG-13

For mature thematic elements, sexuality, nudity, substance abuse, some violence.

Drama

Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron, Delroy Lindo, Paul Rudd, Michael Caine, Jane Alexander, Kathy Baker, Erykah Badu, Kieran Culkin, Kate Nelligan, Heavy D, K. Todd Freeman, Paz de la Huerta, J.K. Simmons, Evan Dexter Parke, Jimmy Flynn

John Irving

Lasse Hallstrom

Cider House Rules, The (1999)

THE CIDER HOUSE RULES is the classic story of one young man's journey: leaving home, finding love, and finding his place in the world. Based on the number #1 best-selling novel by John Irving, who also wrote the screenplay, THE CIDER HOUSE RULES tells the story of Homer Wells, a child without parents who is raised and mentored by his orphanage's doctor, a man named Larch. Theirs was an extraordinary bond. Larch taught Homer everything about medicine and a little bit less about right and wrong. All Homer wanted was the one thing Larch couldn't give him ... rules to live by.

Homer Wells is an orphan, but he does not lack for a family. Having grown up at St. Cloud's orphanage under the unconventional but loving tutelage of Dr. Wilbur Larch, Homer never wanted for affection. Now, as Homer approaches manhood, he begins to question his future. Homer yearns to explore the world for himself.

Upon meeting a privileged young couple, Homer hitches a ride with them and liberates himself from St. Cloud's. Suddenly Homer's choices are limitless. He is introduced to a bigger world full of new sights, adventures and friendships, as well as tragedy, betrayal and danger. The rules that governed his former life seem obsolete. And when Homer falls in love for the first time, his upbringing offers no guidance. As affection turns to ardor, he experiences the highs and lows, as well as the complicated rewards and responsibilities that come with these new emotions. Suddenly, the consequences of making choices become more acute.

As the course of his new life unfolds, Homer's seemingly simple past collides with his more complex present. Yet, Homer comes to realize that his previous life has provided him with the means to make profound decisions that will change the course of his future.

Based on John Irving's acclaimed novel, "The Cider House Rules" is a coming-of-age tale that follows the personal journeys of Homer and Dr. Larch. Full of drama and laughter, "The Cider House Rules" is a story of love, family, and honor. As Homer Wells comes to understand the links between his future and his past, he discovers and accepts his true destiny.