"A River Runs Through It" is a 1992 American period drama film directed by Robert Redford, based on Norman Maclean's 1976 semi-autobiographical novella of the same name. The story is set in early 20th century Montana and follows the lives of two sons of a Presbyterian minister—Norman, the reserved and studious one, and Paul, the rebellious brother. The two brothers are deeply connected by their shared passion for fly fishing, which plays an important symbolic and thematic role in the story. The film explores themes of family, nature, coming of age, and the complexities of human relationships, including struggles with addiction and the search for meaning. The novella and the film are noted for their beautiful depiction of the Montana landscape and the use of fishing as a metaphor for life and spirituality. The film received critical acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Cinematography, and was praised for its visuals, storytelling, and performances, particularly by Brad Pitt. In summary, "A River Runs Through It" is both a literary work and a film centered on family bonds, the natural world, and life's hardships, with fly fishing serving as a continuous metaphor threading through the narrative.