Reviews (2)

paralysis is a state of mind
This BBC TV is based on the true story of Deric and Diana Longden, who were faced with the debilitating symptoms of what was at the time undefined Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome, with Diana a paralytic who has blackouts. The trap in dramatising this kind of tale is allowing the proceedings to get either too maudlin or too icky sweet uplifting. Adapter playwright Jack Rosenthal and director Richard Loncraine overcome this but fall into the opposing trap, by making the situations mundane and distracting the narrative with the seemingly unnecessary plight of the Longden's to be married son, and the lack of success of Deric's business. We don't so much resent the time given to Deric's doddery mother played by Thora Hird since her addle-mindness is so funny, with the reactions to her underplayed as a given. Thankfully as the Longden's, Julie Walters and particularly Jim Broadbent partially restore the balance by investing their characters with warmth and wit. Walters has the tougher role since it is her last wish for Deric to re-marry, and though she makes her Diana someone to be treasured we also see the pain and frustration of her dependence on Deric. Unlike the couple in the Jill Clayburgh Miles to Go, Diana's wish is only activated by Deric's chance meeting with Aileen (if that name wasn't based on the real person it would be unforgiveable), a writer who happens to be blind. As Diana witnesses Deric's interest in Aileen, she sees that the blindness would allow for Deric to continue his need to watch out for someone, without them being totally dependent. The arrangement isn't pushed, much like Diana's anger towards the medical profession's inability to help her. Since the disease she suffers from is unknown to them, they dismiss her as an "hysteric" which matches the medieval hand aides she is given to wear. The film's second half is definitely stronger than the first, as if we need to pause after the gothicness of Diana's encounters with hospitals and before Aileen makes her entrance, and by the conclusion we become grateful that things are left somewhat open, which nicely undercuts what could have deteriorated into tragedy and sentimental sludge.

Well worth watching.
Julie Walters is very good in this movie. It's a wonderful story about peoples tragedies...and how strong it can make one.....and persistent. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Different Kind Of 'Musical'
For those not familiar with his work, Terence Davies (The Long Day Closes, Neon Bible) is more of a painter than a filmmaker, he just happens to use movies as his paint medium! So, in 'Distant Voices/Still Lives' we have a 'painterly' representation of a working-class family in Liverpool circa 1960. The story is told through the thoughts and memories of the various family members, all with different perspectives.

In my subject line, I call this movie a musical. That's because there are many scenes of the characters in pubs or at home, bursting into song, and usually the choice of song reflects the person's feelings at that moment. But these are not sequences like those you see in Musicals. There's no instrumental backing, the people are just singing out loud for their own entertainment & to offset the grim 'kitchen sink' reality of their family life.

I'd like to add that although Freda Dowie is listed as the star (and she IS a standout as the Mum), another actor who may be more familiar is the father, played by Pete Postlethwaite (Romeo + Juliet, Brassed Off). Although his character is frighteningly unsympathetic, it is a wonderful performance.

So, all in all, probably not everyone's cup of tea, but worth the effort if you want a riveting artistic & emotional experience. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

I was persuaded to see this
Upon seeing Ciaran Hinds and Amanda Root in Persuasion I thought I'd like to see them together again. This story is very different and the characters they portray are very different. It is a beautifully shot picture. The story of seeking a better life and love for his son and himself prompts Abel to leave a cruel wife after a love affair goes awry. As he and his son take off for a better life, they are meet with hardships and temptations, always hiding the truth. Abel enters into an unlawful marriage with Hilda (Amanda Root) who loves him,provides his son with a loving home....unfortunately Abel doesn't love her...he loves her beautiful sister Florrie(who eventually becomes his lover and mother of his child after 9 years of quietly bearing life with Hilda) There are troubles ahead for all as his first wife discovers his whereabouts...The story of deceit/truth, cruelty/love, revenge/forgiveness, and unfolding tenderness as each character faces the truth, weaknesses and cruelty within themselves makes for a very touching movie. Truly upon seeing Ciaran and Amanda in very different characters makes one appreciate their talents and skill in acting. I was touched by the movie and my uneasiness in seeing the two Persuasion actors in a whole new way helped me to love even more their ability to tell human stories in these two movies. All the actors involved were very good and the moral questions and tragedies that occur will stir you. The courage to see one's own errors in character and to take responsibilty for it with a deep sense of humility, forgiveness and empathy for others not only transforms Hilda, but helps Abel to forgive himself....the touching ending is quite moving. The music is wonderful...so simple and beautiful a perfect reminder of how one wishes life would be...but is not due to the complexity of the human mind and heart.

Ciaran Hinds does it again
though it would seem that he is paired with Amanda Root (Persuasion) again... and in fact they do get married in this film, Hinds doesn't really heat up to his former sex appeal until the second half of the film. This is a twisted tail of the impossibility of a bad marriage and the impossibility of a man from a disadvantaged background taking care of his son and finding work during the 1930's in England. He uses his luck, but makes a deal with the devil. He is found out. Everyone is well cast and it is certainly a realistic story encased in the possibility of love and romance. Lovely settings.

robust near-epic
The most stunning feature of this film is the "opera singing" of John Turturro! The dubbing (and it HAD to be dubbing) was completely seamless -- and utterly magnificent in its presentation. This film is quite stylish and serves as a great vehicle for the talents of Christina Ricci, Turturro, Johnny Depp and Kate Bleanchett (among others!) The cinematography, sets, music and screenplay are unforgettably superb. This is one of the better films of recent years and is probably a must-see.

Wonderful story. Great casting!
I bought this video because it stars two of my favorites: Ciaran Hinds and Amanda Root. The entire cast is wonderful. Those who see the human condition as black or white will not enjoy this story. But, those who recognize shades of gray, look for hope in dark places, and see forgiveness as a great human virtue will feel sympathy and affection for "The Man Who Cried." The story is set during the Great Depression and World War II. A bad marriage, the need for love and affection, responsibility for a young son, and financial woes push Abel Mason into a series of questionable decisions. It makes one wonder...what would I have done?

unusual story
this movie is a little quirky, but engrossing because of the actors, who are excellent ... Read more