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Curiosity drew me to see this film. The trailer caught my attention several times. It was odd that no one in my circles had been talking about it.
Nevertheless, my far-from-perfect instincts would prove worthwhile on this occasion. I saw the movie on an outbound business flight. It moved me.
During a typical working weekend, I found myself reminiscing over episodes from the story between Dr. Shirley and Tony. Some of those thoughts were reflective. Others were humorous. Yet, others found me marveling.
I deliberately chose to watch the movie a second time, just a day later, on my homeward bound flight. Certain that my initial reflections were reenforced, I recommended it to my wife. We watched it together. That was my third viewing in a week’s time.
When the key characters lived through many life moments, tension ratcheted up. Each individual, except Dolores, had glaring shortcomings. Bigotry was layered in both men. Insecurity leaked out in triggered scenarios. Scarred personal identities became more apparent over time.
Comic relief eased the natural uncomfortable crescendo in this racially charged story. Repeated moments similar to these took a quiet but powerful tone. Relief emerged as transformation. Personal prejudices genuinely eased as friendship emerged. Acceptance was easier than could be imagined. Courage was shared, winning respect. Long suffering grew stronger.
We could only wish for this story line to be repeated as a national or international phenomenon. At least it was true for these two men. It was after all a true story.
Maybe the truth in story on film will touch others to wonder about the possibilities. Perhaps more friendships will stir because of it. Friendship is a powerful human link. There are subtle movements of love, Christmas, letters, and romance that add dynamic texture to the narrative.
I for one could applaud this film and highly recommend it. The story is sure to touch the souls of many. Quite possibly could it shrink the ugly tide of racism to a noticeable degree?
Obviously a film cannot do much to transform the landscape of wicked human behavior. But, people might be attracted to the hope of such change and join in it themselves. Who knows what miraculous moments can happen when genuine friendship discovers true love and righteous people mix it up with a true story.
photo credit: Google image
We still are in an age when Christian films fill spectators with fearful expectation. All of us who are people of faith want Christian films to do well. However, we have come to expect a low-budget embarrassment that is a step backward from hoping a transformative message can work its way into the lives of people who are in desperate need to discover a redeeming message for their eternity.
After comfortably settling into my reserved reclining seat, the film “Running the Race” began. Slowly, my anxiety of expecting embarrassment melted away. Very respectable acting won the day. Good!
Character development of key roles and fascinating curiosities unfolded. Fun moments, good humor, anxious developments, clever dialogue, tension building choices, wise words from smart people, and a surprising hero all made the movie worth seeing. Even more so, this is a movie I am pleased to recommend as one worth seeing.
Brother loyalty is a powerful narrative. This film captures it well. Eternity is an unparalleled dynamic in human life. This film represents it attractively. Tragedy in life is a reality from which we must all emerge. This film develops it effectively. Choices turn our lives from loss to gain. This film captured this in the heart of its message.
This is a movie worth seeing. Bring a friend. Then, recommend it to others.
photo by bruce w fong photography
Austria is a country with a rich history and filled with a people proud of their nation. History took a horrible turn for the worst with the rise of the Nazi’s who put an unspeakably ugly grip on the European continent under the brutal demagoguery of Adolf Hitler. Jews in the nation were persecuted, slaughtered and robbed of their personal possessions.
One of the many families that felt the excruciating oppression of the Nazis were the Altmann’s. They were torn apart by the Nazi take-over. As a family, survival meant some stayed behind while others fled for their lives.
While the Altmann’s fled the Nazi took over their home and stole their art treasures. The portrait of Aunt Adele by Klimt was the center piece. She was the sparkling painting decked in gold leaf throughout, a thorough masterpiece.
Maria Altmann has aged into her senior years when she discovers that she may have a chance of recovering her family paintings through an intricate series of hearings. She taps a relative, he is a young inexperienced lawyer. She trusts him and chases her dream of being reunited with what was once her family’s property.
It is an arduous legal battle. The venue for the grinding litigation starts in Austria, moves to America and finishes with arbitration in Austria. Justice is ultimately served.
Strong performances by both lead actors drives the story. Even the supporting roles of the Austrian patriot trying to make amends for his father’s unexplainable choices adds to the story. The viewer is treated to a long story which is unfolded in a short movie. It is a true story that makes anyone who is a real human being cheer for the little person.
When a wrong is corrected, then I am riveted to the story. Set up a Goliath and his brother against a little David and I am paying attention. Maybe governmental bureaucracy and the smug attitude of arrogant people will always get my goat.
Certainly, this one bright story among so many that are still hoping for redemption makes this victory shine so brightly. I liked this movie. In fact I really liked this movie and I am glad that I saw it and I recommend it to you.
Helen Mirren is a favorite. Ryan Reynolds was splendid. Bruhl and Holmes were great supporting roles. Now, I would take that opportunity to see the painting for myself if I am ever in the area.
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
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