Beginners

Beginners

I went to view this film because of the 79 year old Christopher Plummer. This is not his typical type of film and I wondered how age would affect his stamina and acting. He plays the role of Hal. His wife has died and he finally admits he is gay and wants to live that life style. He finds a lover. He goes to gay events. He wears a multi colored scarf. He dances around and feels that life is beginning for him. He clearly points out that he was a faithful married man and was good to his wife but he always knew that the reality was that he was gay. In the film Hal has actually passed away but through flashbacks we learn about his life.

Oliver is Hal’s son. He is grieving his father’s death. He is a graphic artist and always seems to be in a trance. His best friend is his father’s dog. The dog is so human to Colin and he talks to him all the time. The dog talks back to him (in his mind) There are sub titles on the screen showing what the dog is saying. The audience really enjoyed this. Oliver is the storyteller and through him we learn about his father and how he accepted him being gay. Oliver was supportive of his father and a very devoted son. He remembers his life as a child with his mother and father. There are constant flashbacks throughout the film.

Oliver meets Anna, a very beautiful woman. They have so much in common. The story relates their problems in making it a committed relationship.

Christopher Plummer is good in the role. Some have suggested this is Oscar worthy. Not in my opinion. The film jumps so much from the past to the future and I found it distracting.

I was fascinated to read that the writer director, Mike Mills was telling much of his own story. I wish I had known that before because it would have made it easier for me to accept the plot as it unfolded.

The moments of humor were thoroughly enjoyed. Some films are simply better than others. This is okay which translates as mediocre.