Some time ago this bit of brilliance, this little pearl of wisdom, fell into my lap totally unexpectedly –
“We don’t read and write poetry because it’s cute. We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race. And the human race is filled with passion. And medicine, law, business, engineering — these are noble pursuits and necessary to sustain life. But poetry, beauty, romance, love — these are what we stay alive for.
To quote from Whitman,
‘O me, O life of the questions of these recurring.
Of the endless trains of the faithless. Of cities filled with the foolish. What good amid these, O me, O life?
Answer: that you are here. That life exists and identity. That the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse.’
That the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse.
What will your verse be?”
Dead Poets Society (1989)
I heard this, and I was done. A swell of violins in my head. All that passion, purpose and teenage angst. I mean what else is there, right? But then came When Harry Met Sally that same year. And Daughters of the Dust after that in ‘91. And let’s not forget 1987’s Broadcast News. Broadcast News, people!?! Near perfect filmmaking. And this jumble of cinema started to root itself in my brain. Without even knowing it, I was becoming a film geek. Interested in more than just the “who, what, where, why and when” of movie-making but in the resonant passion and poetry of the art form.
So this is a blog that will be dedicated, in no small part, to the beauty and mystery of great film storytelling. And will often feature films that never make it to your local cineplex, but, rather, find their home direct to DVD, VOD (Video on Demand), vis-à-vis a streaming video platform, or some other similarly alternative outlet.
Thus, if you’re game – cue the violins – grab some popcorn, turn down the lights, and let’s do this thing (p.s. I couldn’t be more tickled that you’re along for the ride, you film geek you!) (p.p.s. yes, you!)!