For me, Stand by Me's shining moment is the made-up story that Gordie (Wil Wheaton) relays to the others around the campfire. The weirdly immature, yet pseudo-sophisticated nature of the pie eating contest nails the essence of childhood creativity in all its sweet crudity. There's no doubt that Phoenix gives the most assured performance, but Wheaton's character is so memorably dimensional and resonant. Damn you for perishing, Denny LaChance!