The Cider House Rules (1999)

In the remote, mist-shrouded town of St. Cloud, Maine, the story of Homer Wells unfolds—a gifted orphan who has never known the embrace of adoption. Raised under the watchful eye of the orphanage's compassionate director, Dr. Larch, Homer becomes an adept, albeit unlicensed physician, nourished with the full spectrum of Dr. Larch's medical wisdom. Yet, a restless yearning for self-determined life simmers within him, manifesting a desire to venture beyond the orphanage's familiar confines. An unexpected visit from Wally and his pregnant companion Candy stirs the winds of change. Dr. Larch, in a delicate act of medical defiance, performs a safe yet illegal abortion for Candy, a pivotal event that prompts Homer to abandon his haven. He embarks on a new journey with Wally and Candy, finding a home amidst the fragrant apple trees of Wally's family farm—his life now intertwined with the rhythms of the cider house. However, the shadow of war soon looms, whisking Wally away and leaving Homer and Candy in a delicate dance of proximity and solitude. In this unexpected solitude, Homer is set on a path of discovery, where he learns profound lessons about life, love, and the intricate web of human relationships. As he navigates the turbulent waters of his newfound freedom, he must confront monumental decisions that will shape his destiny and ripple through the lives of those around him. Despite the distance, the specter of Dr. Larch's planned destiny for Homer lingers, forming a compelling question—can one truly escape the bonds of their upbringing? The Cider House Rules is a profound exploration of one young man's journey to self-discovery, set against the backdrop of societal norms and personal dilemmas. A captivating tale that intertwines the bitterness of life's trials with the sweetness of its rewards, much like the cider brewed in Wally's family farm.

The Cider House Rules is a drama movie featuring Tobey Maguire and directed by Lasse Hallström.

The Cider House Rules is currently streaming on Hoopla and Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel .

It is also possible to buy The Cider House Rules on AMC on Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube or rent it on Spectrum On Demand.