“The Bridges of Madison County” is a 1995 romantic drama film directed by Clint Eastwood, and starring Eastwood and Meryl Streep. The film is based on the 1992 novel of the same name by Robert James Waller. The book, which tells the story of an extramarital affair between a National Geographic photographer and an Iowa farm wife, was a bestseller and Waller wrote a few more books on unrequited love and affairs.

The movie was one of Clint Eastwood’s first forays into directing and it was a commercial and critical success. The film grossed over $182 million worldwide and received largely positive reviews from critics. The performances of the lead actors were widely praised, with Meryl Streep earning an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Francesca Johnson. Eastwood’s portrayal of Robert Kincaid was also widely praised for his ability to convey the character’s vulnerability and depth of feeling.

The film tells the story of Francesca Johnson, an Italian-American farm wife living in Madison County, Iowa. She is married to Richard, a farmer, and has two children. Her life is turned upside down when Robert Kincaid, a National Geographic photographer, comes to the county to take pictures of the covered bridges. They meet and develop a deep and passionate connection. They spend four days together, but ultimately must decide whether to pursue their feelings and risk everything they have, or to return to their respective lives.

The film’s focus on unrequited love and the difficult choices that come with it resonated with audiences, making it a classic in the romantic genre. It’s a film that explores the complexities of love and relationships in a way that is both raw and realistic. The movie is a must-watch for fans of romantic dramas, and those who enjoy stories about the human experience. The performances of the lead actors and the film’s thought-provoking themes make it a timeless classic that will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.