Netflix has released the official trailer for The Bend in the River, a moving documentary from filmmaker Robb Moss that follows the lives of five close friends across nearly five decades.
The documentary will begin streaming globally on Netflix on December 4, 2026.
Directed and produced by Moss, The Bend in the River examines the passage of time, friendship, aging, and the choices that shape a lifetime. The film combines footage spanning almost 50 years to create an intimate portrait of a generation and the enduring bonds that connect people through life’s many transitions.
The story begins in 1978, when Moss documented his friends during a clothing-optional rafting trip through the Grand Canyon. He returned to film them again in 2003, as they grappled with the realities of middle age and increasing responsibilities. In 2025, Moss reconnects with the group once more, finding them in their seventies, reflecting on their lives, relationships, regrets, and accomplishments.
By weaving together footage from different time periods, The Bend in the River creates a powerful meditation on memory, friendship, and the inexorable process of growing older.
The documentary is produced by Robb Moss, Lisa Remington, and Kristin Feeley, with Liz Gilbert Cohen serving as co-producer.
Executive producers include Joel Coen, Frances McDormand, Tot Long, David Lewis, Shane Boris, Jeff Reichert, Geralyn White Dreyfous, Regina K. Scully, James Costa, and Trevor Burgess.
Watch the official trailer below.
Crew
Director
- Robb Moss
Producers
- Robb Moss
- Lisa Remington
- Kristin Feeley
Co-Producer
- Liz Gilbert Cohen
Executive Producers
- Joel Coen
- Frances McDormand
- Tot Long
- David Lewis
- Shane Boris
- Jeff Reichert
- Geralyn White Dreyfous
- Regina K. Scully
- James Costa
- Trevor Burgess
Film Details
- Title: The Bend in the River
- Genre: Documentary
- Runtime: 82 Minutes
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
- Premiere Date: December 4, 2026
Synopsis
Spanning nearly half a century, The Bend in the River follows five lifelong friends as they navigate youth, middle age, and later life. Through footage captured across decades, the film explores friendship, aging, personal reflection, and the ongoing search for meaning throughout life’s journey.
The Bend in the River premieres on Netflix on December 4, 2026.
