I really enjoyed this film. I thought Richard Gere was very good. Do I think he should get an Oscar nom? I think so. From the scene where he is begging for change to sleeping on a park bench he really turns in an exceptional performance. When he was begging I couldn't even tell it was him. And his portrayal of his character's confusion and frustration are emotional and deeply felt.
I saw this film at the local Art House theater where I am group leader of Indie Movie night. It probably will not get much of a wide release which is sad. I even heard from the girl who runs the concessions and ticketing counter that the film wasn't doing so well even at the Art House venue. I don't know why it hasn't caught on to a wider audience. Perhaps it's the subject matter. Homelessness, addiction, a broken family, and mental illness are the subjects that surround Gere's character. As it does many homeless according to this film. I was amazed at what a homeless person has to do to get off the streets. So much buearucracy. So many things to put up with. It is a very real portrait of the homeless in New York.
I thought the film was great in every way. The performances were great, the sound was great, the cinematography was great, and, of course, the story was very strong. Particularly the sound. The film used diagetic sound through most of the film. All sound came from the film for the first hour and a half. Then Gere's character goes to the bar where his daughter works and songs from outside of the film's action start to play. It was interesting that the sound was presented in such a creative way. And the sound really sticks with you. The sound of sirens or homeless people arguing off screen really affect how an audience interacts with the film. The other unique part of the film is it's cinematography. There are many great shots in the film. From the opening shot of Manhattan from Queens, to the last one of a slow fade to black while George's daughter runs after him, the cinematography reflects the emotions of George and everyone else in the film. There are many askance shots. I was reminded of Ozu's films by many of the shots where it shows just part of Gere's face or head. Or from a longer view of Gere from inside of a cafe looking outward. Like an observer not part of the action. Or, perhaps, a person looking at homeless people. So many times I have looked at a homeless person in New York or Binghamton. And of course the thoughts come, why don't they get a job? Medical help? Why don't they get off drugs?
It is these questions that the film addresses. It shows that getting off the streets is not easy. There many obstacles to overcome to finally getting help and getting off the street. With rent prices so high in New York it's no wonder that there are so many homeless there. But, as the film shows, there are ways to getting off the street, ways to get medical help, and re-connect with family that you have become estranged to.
I felt the end of the film was hopeful. George is trying to re-connect with his estranged daughter. After a conflict, she runs after him. I was left feeling that they were going to work it out. Yet, his daughter also said they had tried several times before. Maybe this time will work out? I guess it is more important that they are trying and hopefully will get somewhere.
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