Visited with an old friend last Friday night. After all, hubby was at the monthly neighbor poker party - what else is there to do but snuggle up with Splendor in the Grass. This early 1960s romance takes us through the painful angst of teenage love. Natalie Wood and Warren Beatty (in his film debut!) really nail this theme. Bud and Dini, with passion (and sexual frustration) that could melt steel, are star-crossed members of a pre-Depression America. Since I shall assume you have seen it, I shall skip summary to just weigh that the adults in this film are a fascinating study of what not to do in parenting, despite all their best intentions. (Could write an essay on them.) It is also a statement on the limited choices of this era, especially for young females.
I relate to this movie on several personal levels, some of which I will spare you. However, there is a scene where Dini is forced to stand in English class and recite and interpret Wm. Wordsworth's Ode: Intimations on Immortality. "What, though the radiance which is once so bright, be now forever taken from my sight, tho nothing can bring back the hour of splendor in the grass, of glory in the flower, we will grieve not; rather find strength in what remains behind."
Dini bursts into tears as it punctures her pain in Bud having broken up with her.
When I studied the poem in college, it held meaning for me, too.
For years I taught it in high school, and I was coincidentally scheduled to read and discuss it in class on the day my best friend, Steve Hanley, died. I broke down, reading the words. My students huddled around me.
So, yea, this film is an old friend of mine. I cried again at the end. Dammit.
Sounds like you really connected with your old friend, Valerie. A movie can indeed be like a comfort blanket. I feel that way about so many films. Very touched by your Wordsworth ode, particularly as it relates to our former friend and colleague. Steve.
ReplyDeleteMovie talk: I saw Splendor too long ago...must revisit it at your recommendation. I do however remember Natalie Wood for several memorable roles. She was great as the angst-y teen in Rebel Without a Cause. But to me her top role was as Maria in West Side Story. As for Warren: handsome guy...no wonder he was the Hollywood playboy for so long. Guess it took Annette to really setlle him down...with a bunch of kids!
Crying during a film....we all do it...but most guys just don't admit it!
I just watched this film for the first time last night, and cried several times (I was glad I'd opted to watch it alone). Reading this post, just the quote itself brought tears back to my eyes.
ReplyDeleteSo powerful in its subtlety, the classic "showing, not telling" is what I believe won it Best Screenplay. I was especially impressed with first-timer Beatty's ability to show intense, repressed frustration with so few lines. He very aptly shows his character's inability (or hesitance) to make his voice be heard.
I didn't know your story about Steve Hanley. It makes me cry all over again.
Well, if both Valerie and daughter are so moved by the oldie, then I must run out and rent it....which I shall do. I'll report in once we've seen it. Thanks to both of you for your comments.
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