Can we talk?

An Enduring Film

         Watched another old movie again. I know I saw it the first time around, maybe once or twice since then, at least partially. I never realized that Stacy Keach was in The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter. He had a receding hairline even in those early days.

         I never knew that was Sondra Locke's first big break. They kept the no make up look to help her look about 8 years younger for the part of a high school girl. But she has always kept a natural look as far as I can remember. I never really followed her movies. In fact The Outlaw Josie Wales and the chimp movies with Clint were the only ones I was aware of. Apparently, she's done a lot of movies with and without Clint. Unfortunately, her private life with him has gotten more publicity. She actually had an Oscar nomination for this role, along with Alan Arkin. Neither one of them actually got it.

         It's a very tender story about hurting people, all eloquently portrayed. The deaf mute, who cannot communicate, manages to befriend lonely, misunderstood, hurting people. In his silence he still connects with them, and they "hear", like they count for something. He makes them feel a little less broken. But no one can help him. He resorts to talking to himself with his hands as he walks down the street.

         The story is still strong today, transcending the 60's setting and culture.  The Mozart, the dance music, the fireworks, and all the other noises accentuate the silence. It's a very gripping movie. Alan Arkin pulls at the heart strings in a great performance.