THE HOURS - This was a rewatch for me and a new reflection on a film that is really hard to pick a place to review from. Initially, I wanted to be angry at the characters because on the surface it feels selfish and limited in perspective to those with significant means (the 1%ers of Maslow's triangle). But that would be superficial and I would also be missing the point that happiness life is not measured in material things or meeting societal standards of married with kids, two cars, and two TVs. "The problem with no name" is alive in these strong characters, who each are eventually relieved of their burdens by choice or happenstance. I think I disagree with physical death bringing contrast, I believe death of the former life that imprisons is the more constructive and instructive contrast. And though once upon a time I dwelled in such a prison, I do not presume to know the pain others feel and there is a bravery in facing the unknown. The acting in this incredible, but I believe Julianne Moore steals the stage as does her young son played by Jack Rovello. Rovello's face in the street when he chases after his mother is incredibly emotional without tears or words, powerful acting, like a silent film star. The music by Phillip Glass is very well-done and keeps you frozen in the heaviness of feeling throughout, which I would guess most find to be too depressing to actually enjoy. I also really enjoyed the continuity of the film that flowed between the time periods that made it seem as if they were each happening simultaneously. A kind of film-quantum-entanglement where the events of the past directly impact the future. I do enjoy this, but as there have been major changes in my life that chapter has closed as does dwelling too long in those thoughts and past moments. Still a very good film.
7/10