Dr. Wilbur Larch runs an orphanage in Maine. He is not a straightforward character, endlessly fighting with the home’s Board and surviving the strain through his ether addiction. He cares deeply about ‘his’ children, but his favourite is Homer whom he takes under his wing and trains up as an unqualified doctor, perhaps to succeed him in time. However, Homer decides to leave, seeking independence, and finding friendship and love, but never, it seems, his purpose. It is a beautiful watch despite some difficult subject matter.

The 90s produced a string of cinematographically beautiful dramas that were profound, moving, sentimental even. Films such as Green Fried Tomatoes (1991), Good Will Hunting (1997) and Forrest Gump (1994). Dead Poets Society just misses the cut, having been made in 1989. No CGI, just good old-fashioned stories about relationships, reaching for a happiness that appears to be out of reach but not settling for second-best, no matter the challenges. The Cider House Rules is one of these films.

Maguire only got the role when his friend, Leonardo DiCaprio, turned it down. Others were also considered. It was this performance that persuaded director Sam Raimi to cast Maguire as Peter Parker/Spiderman in his 2002 Spiderman film. Michael Caine went on to be Batman’s butler, Alfred, and Paul Rudd became Ant-Man. Cider House Rules is a superhero wannabe fest.


Certificate: 12
2 hours 6 min
Prime / Youtube
Director: Lasse Hallstrom
Cast: Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron, Michael Caine