The setting of the film is in an orphanage in Maine. A loving doctor, Dr. Larch, played by Michael Caine and two nurses take care of these small children. One child in particular, Homer Wells, played by Tobey Maguire, takes a special place in the Dr. Larch's heart. The doctor takes on Homer as an apprentice and teaches Homer all that he knows. The controversial topic of abortion is brought to attention because Dr. Larch both helps the mother through labor and keeps the orphan in the orphanage, or he aborts the baby depending on what the mother wishes.
Homer takes advantage of a chance to leave the orphanage and go out into the real world.
Without the shelter of the orphanage, Homer's naivete is challenged and he has to make challenging decisions on his own. Homer is faced with a particular dilemma to follow in Dr. Larch's footsteps and perform an abortion or to follow his own moral instincts. The Cider House Rules is an excellent, entertaining movie that no one should miss. This site was created in January 2000 by Jason Putorti and is administrated by Nicholas Jones '03. Please notify the webmaster of any broken links or problems with this site.