Quick Summary
In this western, a farmer is compelled to abandon his home, escaping downriver on a raft accompanied by his son and the girlfriend of a crooked gambler in the story. The film features Robert Mitchum, Marilyn Monroe and Rory Calhoun.
About This Program ✦
River of No Return is a programme presented as a Western film. It falls within the movie genre and centres on a dramatic escape down a river, offering a straightforward adventure narrative. The story follows a farmer who is compelled to abandon his homestead. Together with his son, he takes to a river raft in order to get away. Accompanying them is the girlfriend of a dishonest gambler, adding an extra layer of tension to their flight. The trio’s journey down the waterway forms the core of the plot, as they try to evade the circumstances that forced them to flee. The production features a notable cast, with Robert Mitchum, Marilyn Monroe and Rory Calhoun appearing in the leading roles. Their involvement is highlighted in the programme’s promotion, underscoring the film’s appeal to audiences familiar with these performers. The Western setting, combined with the river‑based escape, gives the piece its distinctive flavour within the broader genre.
River of No Return broadcasts on Film4 +1 at 3:20pm, Wednesday, 28 January 2026. (Subtitles)


