Reviews
Hand in Hand (1961)
Lessons in love and tolerance through children's eyes.
I too saw this movie in the early 1960's at summer camp. I loved the movie at the time. Today is Good Friday and my daughter asked me if she could go to church with her friend. We have never gone to church with her as we are more into Hinduism and Buddhism (though my husband was raised Roman Catholic and I was raised as a Jew). So it made me think of Hand in Hand. I am sorry that it is not out on video. It would be so wonderful and so timely to share with this generation of children. I remember in the movie how each child was so apprehensive about going to each other's house of worship, fearing they even might be struck by lightening. But they grow together, despite the prejudices their parents express. I would love to see it and share it with my eight year old.
The Thin Red Line (1998)
A film that transcends the genre of "war movie" while it asks life's biggest questions.
I just came back from seeing the Thin Red Line. I am awed by every aspect of it, from screenplay to cinematography, to editing to the amazing performance and the over all direction. As far as I am concerned this film far surpasses Saving Private Ryan. The voice-overs add to this move. It is very provocative and filled with light. It transcends the genre of "war movie" dealing with life and death, good and evil, love and what transcends all duality. A shining trip into what is most dark in man.
Under the Lighthouse Dancing (1997)
Sometimes profound meessages can be extremely subtle and simple.
This movie has become one of my very favorite movies. It is a love story, a story of friendship and one of transcendance over death. One can, if they are open to it, actually feel bliss at the end of this movie. It is also a very romantic movie. The fact that the plot is so simple does not mean it is empty of meaning. Quite the contrary! Its simplicity points beyond the movie to our inner self. I have shown this film to three good friends and they have all love it. The beauty of the island, and the calm beauty of the lead character (really to the credit of the leading lady) are both inspiring and mesmerizing. I wish I could buy a commercial version of this film!
Beloved (1998)
A lush, overlong look at the life of former slaves who are haunted by more than a ghost.
Beloved gave an inside perspective on what it was to be a slave or freed slave. Haunted by more than a ghost, this film gives a tangible experience of the lives of these characters. Although I actually thought the film was going to end three different times I did not mind. The film is somewhat disjointed and confusing, but I was able to follow the story and was actually surprised (which is a rarity in most movies). The acting was terrific, the cinematography beautiful. This movie can be difficult to stomach at times but worth it all. A powerful experience and one I feel would be worthwhile for all adult audiences.