The Man in the Moon (1991)

The Man in the Moon is a 1991 American drama film, directed by Robert Mulligan, written by Jenny Wingfield, and produced by Mark Rydell. The film is set in rural 1950s Louisiana and tells the story of 14-year-old Danielle “Dani” Trant and her coming-of-age experiences. It revolves around Dani’s first love and heartbreak when 17-year-old Court Foster moves next door. The narrative unfolds in the summer of 1957, focusing on Dani’s relationships with her family and her growing affection for Court, leading to complex dynamics after he becomes romantically involved with her older sister, Maureen. This film marked the debut of Reese Witherspoon in a major film role, showcasing her early acting prowess. Despite a melodramatic ending, the film is lauded for its authentic portrayal of adolescence, familial relationships, and bittersweet emotions, culminating in a heartfelt resolution.

Length: 1h 39m
Genre: Drama, Romance, Family
This Title is: Coming-of-age, Heartfelt, Nostalgic

“The Man in the Moon” IS STREAMING TODAY ON Prime Video IN CANADA!

Trailer

Cast

• Sam Waterston as Matthew Trant
• Tess Harper as Abigail Trant
• Reese Witherspoon as Danielle “Dani” Trant
• Jason London as Court Foster
• Emily Warfield as Maureen Trant

Parental Guidance

Maturity Rating: PG-13

Content warnings for thematic elements, mild language, and brief sensuality.

Trivia

• This was Reese Witherspoon’s film debut.
• The film received critical acclaim, making Roger Ebert’s list of the Top 10 Films of 1991.
• Directed by Robert Mulligan, this was his final film before his death in 2008.

Our Review

“The Man in the Moon” stands out as a coming-of-age drama that captures the essence of adolescence with remarkable sensitivity. Reese Witherspoon, in her debut role, delivers a performance that is both compelling and authentic, embodying the complexities of a young girl navigating the turbulent waters of first love and familial bonds. The narrative, while set in a specific time and place, resonates universally with its exploration of growing pains and emotional maturity. The film’s delicate handling of its themes and characters, coupled with superb performances by the cast, makes it a memorable and touching cinematic experience.

Critic Scores

Critic Scores aggregate ratings from IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Metacritic. (Click on any score for a detailed review.)