A River Runs Through It and Other Stories is a semi-autobiographical novella by Norman Maclean (1902–1990). It concerns the Macleans, a Presbyterian family in early 20th century Montana whose views on life are filtered through their passion for fly-fishing. The book is presented from the point of view of older brother Norman who goes on one last fishing trip with his rowdy and troubled younger brother Paul in an attempt to help him get his life on track. The novel is noted for using detailed descriptions of fly-fishing and nature to engage with a number of profound metaphysical questions, and is recognized as a minor American classic

THE MOTION PICTURE

A River Runs Through It was nominated for three Academy Awards for 1992, including Best Cinematography (Philippe Rousselot); Best Music, Original Score (Mark Isham ); and Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium (Richard Friedenberg). Rousselot won for Best Cinematography. Robert Redford was also nominated for Best Director - Motion Picture at the Golden Globes, but did not win.