Silent Tongue Movie Review

The conclusion of Silent Tongue is abrupt for a reason; reportedly, the original ending was scrapped because of the uneven quality of some of the performances. Watching the rest of the film, it isn't too difficult to identify the weakest cast members: Dermot Mulroney and River Phoenix, both of whom acquitted themselves with distinction in many other ensemble showcases. Mulroney is simply inept, but even Phoenix's most worshipful admirers will wince at his lack of focus here. He is supposed to be a grief-crazed widower, but in his eyes we see nothing but an artistic athlete dying young, and not appearing to care one way or another. But there are many other rewards to be found in Sam Shepard's western ghost story, namely the strong, deeply felt performances of Alan Bates, Richard Harris, Sheila Tousey, and Jeri Arrendondo.

1992 (PG-13) 101m/C River Phoenix, Sheila Tousey, Richard Harris, Alan Bates, Jeri Arredondo, Dermot Mulroney, Tantoo Cardinal; Cameos: Bill Irwin, David Shiner; D: Sam Shepard; W: Sam Shepard; C: Jack Conroy; M: Patrick O'Hearn. VHS, LV, Closed Caption