Get Low

Get Low

Refreshing! Delightful! What a pleasant surprise! Robert Duvall gives a masterful performance as Felix Bush, a recluse. The film begins with a picture of a house completely on fire. We are then introduced to Mr. Bush. He lives in a cabin in the woods. His rifle is always close by and intruders are warned from his property. We discover that he has lived here for 40 years. Of course we want to know more about this character with the straggly beard and long hair. Why is he living like this? Who is he? What is the connection to the house on fire?

I loved this film because it has serious moments and also light hearted situations. Bill Murray and Lucas Black are memorable as the funeral directors in town. They are trying to stay in business. Things have been bad for them and they need to drum up some action. They add so much to the film. Bill Murray can roll his eyes or make a facial expression that can say so much more than words. He is so delightful and funny. The funeral directors complain that they’re in the business of looking after the dead but nobody is dying in this small town.

Mr. Bush comes to visit them. He has an unusual request. He wants a funeral ceremony while he is still alive. He asks the funeral directors to organize the big event. He shows them a big wad of old money all rolled up. This is quite a temptation for the men who are so desperate for business. The whole town is invited and asked to tell stories about Mr. Bush. The winner of a draw would gain the property of Mr. Bush winner when he actually dies.

The funeral home wants to accept this quirky request because they know that Mr. Bush has money and they are desperate.

The funeral directors honor all of Mr. Bush’s requests and it does make for some humorous situations. They insist that Mr. Bush has to have a haircut and shave. They help him purchase a new suit. Voila! Mr. Bush looks like quite a handsome dude. The memorial ceremony (with Mr. Bush present) is very touching as well as humorous.

Sissy Spaceck plays the part of a former girlfriend. As the past begins to unravel we learn some startling facts about the past.

I was shocked to discover that this was based on a true story from the 30’s. I guess truth really is stranger than fiction.

I loved this film. The performers were excellent. The story tells like an old folk tale. This is a refreshing and entertaining piece of cinema.