
"The River" was released to theaters in 1984, directed by Mark Rydell and starring Mel Gibson and Sissy Spacek. Upon its initial release, the film received mixed to positive reviews, with critics praising the performances and the realistic portrayal of rural struggles, but some found its pacing slow. Despite moderate box office success, it didn't become a major hit at the time. Over the years, "The River" has garnered appreciation for its heartfelt depiction of a farming family's resilience against natural and financial adversities. It is now regarded as an underrated gem, valued for its earnest storytelling and authentic representation of American rural life.