On this day, December 19, 1984, The River premiered in theaters. Directed by Mark Rydell, the film stars Sissy Spacek, Mel Gibson, and Scott Glenn in a powerful drama about a struggling family fighting to save their farm and livelihood against economic hardships and a relentless river.
Sissy Spacek delivered a standout performance, showcasing her incredible range, while Mel Gibson continued to rise as one of Hollywood’s leading actors. Despite critical praise and its heartfelt themes, The River underperformed at the box office, earning $11.5 million against an $18 million budget.
Sissy Spacek delivered a standout performance, showcasing her incredible range, while Mel Gibson continued to rise as one of Hollywood’s leading actors. Despite critical praise and its heartfelt themes, The River underperformed at the box office, earning $11.5 million against an $18 million budget.