How does one organism survive, even thrive, constantly bombarded by toxins while another wilts? The mechanics of ego and family dysfunction are the foci of this beautifully simple but devastating character study; the metaphor is a science project. Why Paul Newman seemed to be ashamed of this skillfully-directed and numbingly well-acted opus is beyond comprehension. Woodward's and Wallach's performances should have at least been Oscar-nominated; Nell Potts' stoic determination should have won one. If anyone ever has a chance to see or own this small, grimy masterpiece, wait for the "heart is full" line, read it's meaning, and prepare to sob uncontrollably.
