Making a movie of anything by John Irving is a prodigious undertaking, and Cider House Rules is no exception.
Irving's characters are so intricately woven and, generally, so eccentric that it requires expert direction to bring them to life. And Halle Lasstrom, (What's Eating Gilbert Grape?), does just that, according to the film's enthusiastic reviews.
It's not an easy story. Homer Wells (Tobey Maguire) is an orphan raised at St. Cloud's, an orphanage in a remote New England town by a kindly, and quirky, doctor, Wilbur Larch (Michael Caine). Larch teaches Homer everything he needs to know, and some things he doesn't – for instance, how to perform abortions.
Larch runs the orphanage, but does abortions on the side at a time when abortions were strictly illegal because he doesn't want any more unwanted children in the world. His intentions are pure as Maine snow, even if his recreational habits leave something to be desired. He has an addiction to the ether he uses in the operating room.
One day a lovely young lass, Candy, (Charlize Theron) comes along with her boyfriend Wally, (Paul Rudd), to the orphanage for an abortion and Homer falls instantly in love. The couple invite Homer to their farm and Homer makes his first foray into the outside world, much to the doctor's disapproval.
At the farm he learns quickly much more than he ever had in the confines of the orphanage. From ranch hand Mr. Rose (Delroy Lindo), Homer learns the "cider house rules," and he is forced to face some tough decisions from here on in.
Michael Caine's portrayal of the crusty old doctor has gotten outstanding reviews. In fact, the whole cast has been welcomed warmly by the critics. The film has been called "a wonderful mix of laughter, tears, and human emotion."
You can't ask much more than that.
It is rated PG-13 for mature thematic elements, sexuality, nudity, substance abuse and some violence.
It starts Thursday at Sunny Isle.
