A Tale of Two Movies

A Tale of Two Movies

        The two cities were Washington DC and Paris (and other French towns).  The time frame for both movies was within a general period of the mid 1800’s. (“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”) There were some general themes that were similar: oppression of the poor, law and grace, the courage of those fighting against tyranny, freedom and God’s will.

       Both lead characters died for others and their cause. Both had Christ-like qualities.   Both lead characters were powerful examples. Both characters were and are totally unforgettable and, yes, extremely famous.

       One story was done in music and one in words. One was fiction and one was fact. Both of these stories were told in two and a half hour movies.  Two and a half hours of intensity and total absorption into the stories. Both offered lessons for life. You know I am talking about Les Miserables and Lincoln, two recent films and two of the best movies I have seen in a long time.  

      Though I read Les Miserables and saw two other stage versions and one film version of the story, I was totally enthralled. Though I have read at least 20 books about Lincoln and consider him to be a personal hero, I was overwhelmed with this movie.

      The “tear factor” is a gauge I use to determine how involved I am in a movie and how moved I am emotionally. Sometimes my “tear factor” gauge does not work, because a movie is just too sad for tears. However, it usually does work for my purposes.  I cried a little while watching Les Miserables, but there was no surprise since I had seen it before.  The music was totally moving, though.

       Now, Lincoln should not have brought even a tear to my eyes, because I knew the story, or so I thought. Since Team of Rivals has been on my night stand for over a year untouched and unread, I was totally, surprised and moved by the story. (Most of the ideas from the movie came from this book as I understand.) I just bawled.  The film was so realistic and well-done. The acting was superb as was nearly every aspect of the film. I cried mostly because it seemed to be such a realistic portrayal of this most humble, loving, courageous leader.

      Lincoln, the movie, like Lincoln, the man “belongs to the ages” as the Edwin Stanton said upon his death.  Let us not forget the gift that Lincoln was to our nation.  Let us not forget how really great he was. For his words, deeds and example, we should be grateful.

       Though I enjoyed both movies, there is no doubt in my mind which I liked better. Truth can truly be more powerful than fiction. In the case of Lincoln, joy was brought to me just realizing that someone like Lincoln really lived. (And, yes, I have already started reading Team of Rivals.)