THE SOUTHERNER - 1945
RATED - NR but probably G/PG
RATINGS - 10 Amazon (4.5/5), 2,158 Netflix (3.2/5), 552 IMDB (7.6/10), Leonard Maltin (4/4).
STARRING - Zachary Scott, Betty Field. Directed by Jean Renoir.
AWARDS - 3 Academy Award nominations including BEST DIRECTOR, BEST SOUND and BEST MUSICAL SCORE. Winner of BEST FILM at the 1945 Venice Film Festival.
THEMES - Perseverance, the American dream, justice, relationships.
STORY - Why would someone in 2008 watch a B & W film made in 1945 about a 1930's family who are dirt poor trying start their own farm? First, this is a Jean Renoir film and many think he is the best director ever, certainly in the top five. Second, this is a film most of us can identify with at some level. It's about wanting a piece of the American dream, about starting your own business (farm) and creating something based on your abilities and desires. It's about trying to beat the odds, the odds like nature, no money, opponents and limited resources to make it. It's about having faith in yourself and in a higher power that gives purpose and meaning to what you do. Is there justice in this world for those who work hard and live a moral and upright life? You may or may not think so after watching this film. It's another reminder of what makes this country so great are the opportunities that it gives; though not are all equal, they are there for those with the courage and perseverance to follow a dream. Though the film quality is a little poor and Beulah Bondi as Granny Tucker is a weak link in the movie, it is definitely worth watching this little slice of Americana. Lu G. for Lu's Reviews. 08/09/2008.
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