Bethy's Excellent Adventure: MacArthur Park

The first time I watched the movie, I was still reeling from meeting Billy and seeing Liz Taylor. So the movie became a refuge my hermit-side was desperately in need of.

The lights dimmed and finally it started, at least an hour later than planned. What a gift to behold.The music took me into the park. The characters kept me there. They were real and you became enthralled by the life they lead. Actually the crack pipe leads them, into dangerous and heart wrenching territory. The performances were awesome. I was amazed at how I was lost in them and their lives immediately. The actors were amazing, beautiful work. I loved Keno's performance. Kudos guy! :} All of the actors were spectacular. Tom was excellent, I can't think of any that weren't. I loved Blue and what she tried to do. So many to mention. Love Lori Petty, such a kick to watch her. I hope to see more from all these actors.

I was really impressed. I'm not going to tell you about the film, story line or what happens in the film. Suffice it to say I realized a great many things about addiction and even about myself in the viewing of this movie. It's something that everyone one should see. Addiction in your life or not, it gives you a perspective that you couldn't have unless you know someone who struggles and live it with them. Each time I saw the film, I noticed a different aspect of it.

The first time the performances and story swept me away. The second time the music, setting and the more subtle layers of the story were evindent. As one viewer explained during last the Q & A, after seeing MacArthur Park twice, "The first time I felt the pain, the second time I felt the love." I did as well. The last time we saw it, I realized more of the technical aspects of the film. How Billy would ease the tension that was at a fever pitch by cutting away from the action and then back to it. It allowed you to breath again, for a second anyway. The anti-climax, whoosh!

Impressive how he (and company) worked it. The symbolism was interesting too. There was symbolism every time someone died. The birds in the park would fly off in a flock, then cut to the next scene. Maxine noticed that they didn't always fly in the same direction too. Cool. I was really impressed by Billy's direction more upon each viewing.

Billy, thanks for a wonderful time and a great movie. I am most impressed by all that surrounds you.

Beth------ Taos Film Festival 2001

built mm 4/2001

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