1986
Directed by Rob Reiner
Much like A Christmas Story, this is a film I had a bit of trouble connecting with, as I was never a young boy (despite what a few doctors have said). I also didn't live in a neighborhood where all the children would play together; mostly we would just make awkward conversation at the bus stop. A movie that depicted my childhood would just be a stationary shot of a girl reading by herself for nine hours. Maybe Chantal Akerman could film it.
A group of young boys set out to find a dead body rumored to be near the railroad tracks. As the film progresses we learn about the boys' dysfunctional families and individual issues. So basically like The Breakfast Club only with younger, less interesting characters....who are already friends. Okay, maybe that's not the best comparison.
So obviously I don't have to relate to every single character to enjoy a film. But I certainly wasn't the audience for the movie, as evidenced by the disgusting pie scene that we were supposed to think was hilarious. I also found the ending a bit hard to believe. I won't give anything away, but I felt like the stakes weren't high enough to justify everyone's actions.
Just not a film for me, so my feelings lean more towards indifference than actual dislike.
RATING: **---
Interesting Facts:
Stephen King thought this was the best adaptation of his work that he had ever seen.
What a pity you didn't like this one! But you are probably right, it's rather a movie for boys than for girls. But even so, I think this atmospheric and sensitive (except for the pie finale) coming of age summer drama is very well done and evokes melancholic memories of a time without computer games and early friendship.
ReplyDeleteInteresting to see all the young actors in their early roles, especially River Phoenix. Did you at least like the Soundtrack?
I agree with King, for me it's actually the only successful translation to film of any of his works so far.
Denes
I agree, it was a pretty great cast. I did love the soundtrack; I love Buddy Holly.
DeleteHave you seen Secret Window? I thought it was a pretty good adaptation.
I saw the movie but haven't read the book, so I can't really compare. But you're right, there are other examples - Carrie with Sissy Spacek for instance.
DeleteStand By Me is something completely different of course. If I would have to think of a female comparison it could be Beaches with Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey.
I don't belive your childhood was like a Chantal Akerman movie. Children who read a lot are closer to life than the so called popular ones. Besides, awkward conversations at the bus stop can make a good script. But since she decided to leave this world last year, she couldn't direct this one anyway.
Keep up the good work and take care!
Denes
Oh wow I didn't know she had committed suicide! I liked Misery too! And I agree about the conversations! Never seen Beaches.
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