The Dead (John Huston, 1987)
An absence of drama makes room for an abundance of... other things. Feeling, nostalgia, warm moments? All of these things I suppose. I have made previous attempts to watch this film, but when I began it I found I was not in the right mood. This morning was different. I had already decided that I would take it easy this morning, having gotten my second Covid shot yesterday, and feeling a bit tired and achy and not fit for anything but a low stress movie. This fit the bill perfectly.
What could be more inviting than the light of lamps and candles glowing warmly from the windows of a house, onto a dark winter street. Dancing silhouettes are cast upon the drawn curtains. The snow covered surroundings smother any sound that leaks outs. A lucky few have the pleasure of going inside, myself included.
What happens here that doesn't happen at most any dinner party? Like I said before, there is an absence of drama. Perhaps that is it's most realistic feature. People are greeted warmly and happily, and go on to mingle with those already arrived. It's the usual atmosphere for these sort of things. Sarcastic people make sarcastic comments, politically minded people talk politics, people circulate and catch up. Touchy subjects get touched on and are collectively put aside so as not to derail the evening. Dinner is served, compliments are made regarding the food, more polite jokes and sarcasm too now that the drinks have been flowing. People smile, and laugh politely. The talkative sorts do most of the talking and the listeners listen, not unhappily. All do their part to keep the mood pleasant, and its managed without any great straining.
As is often the case, the true commentary on the evening comes on the ride home or laying in bed. Somehow, despite the overwhelming positivity of the gathering, the effect is not carried past the front door of the warm house. Once in their carriage or in their beds, people look troubled and find something negative about the evening to focus on. Someone looking especially old, or how so-and-so is such a sad case. Would it have been better not to go at all?
This was a pleasant experience which I didn't find too taxing. It's more poignant moments, for me, probably didn't elevate it as much as it might for others but I will continue to think about them.
I haven't heard or read much about this film before. What's your history with it oldkid?