Never heard of it? Do yourself a favor and watch it. It is SUCH a great film, for so many reasons. It was the movie that discovered for the world a magnificent talent, Amy Adams. She gives a daring performance - one of the best crying scenes I have ever seen. I won't give away the reason for her grief, but it is palpable. It cast one of my favorite actors (Alessandro Nivola - also in another favorite movie, "Laurel Canyon.") He has a beautiful singing voice, which the director brilliantly highlights in the following scene:
I love how the camera slowly pans around the room, giving you a look at the churchgoers reactions to the hymn. It is fascinating to see how his wife (played by little known Embeth Davidtz) reacts to his singing - her acting in this scene is so subtle but so powerful. I love how her body is turned toward the singing, shielding her reaction from the family and allowing the audience to feel as though they are getting a secret glimpse into her relationship with her husband. How well does she really know him? It is also poignant to watch his mother's (played by Celia Weston) reaction - it reminds me of how I feel about church music. I am transported to another time, another place. Finally, my favorite line of the movie is within Amy Adams' wrenching monologue - "You know what? I'm cravin' some nuts." It reminds us that within tragedy, there is still humor. I think I'll watch that hymn scene again - it soothes me. Until next time, SAHM.
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