Flashback: My Own Private Idaho [1991]

June 10, 2007 in Flashback, Keanu Reeves

My Own Private Idaho is a 1991 independent film written and directed by Gus Van Sant, loosely based on Shakespeare’s Henry IV, part 1.

The film follows two street hustlers, Mike (River Phoenix) and Scott (Keanu Reeves), as they embark on a journey of personal discovery that takes them to Mike’s hometown in Idaho and then to Italy in search of Mike’s mother. Scott is based on Prince Hal, the son of the king in the Shakespearean history Henry IV. He is the son of the wealthy mayor of Portland, Oregon and claims his street behavior, which includes prostitution to male clients, is largely rebellion. Mike, however, is gay, narcoleptic and has no other means of support. The two develop a strong friendship that is tested by Scott’s ambivalence to street life and his forthcoming inheritance, as well as Mike’s romantic affection for his companion.

Theatrical Trailer

Sexx Laws by Beck

Magazine Scene

My Own Private Idaho in Wikipedia