At its core, this is a road story and a fable about home, family, love, and companionship -- It is not a movie about hustlers or sex, except in so far as it provides a framework for the plot -- I did not visit reviewer commentaries before watching this movie, but picked up on the Shakespearian allusions and language -- There is a dreamlike quality to the film which draws one in -- Both River Phoenix as Mike Waters and Keanu Reeves as Scott Favor were supurb, and the supporting cast and cinematography is strong -- Gus Van Sant is clearly a gifted director -- I loved this film and will certainly be viewing it again -- TimeOut Magazine Best Gay Movies #4.