Solitude and Serenity Disrupted by Conflict

Read Time:4 Minute, 12 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Islands In The Stream
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 1977, 2023 ViaVision Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 44m
Director(s): Franklin J. Schaffner
Writer(s): Ernest Hemingway, Denne Bart Petitclerc
Cast: George C. Scott, David Hemmings, Gilbert Roland, Hart Bochner, Susan Tyrrell, Richard Evans, Claire Bloom
Where To Watch: available now, order here www.viavision.com.au or here in the US www.orbitdvd.com

RAVING REVIEW: ISLANDS IN THE STREAM sets sail with Franklin J. Schaffner at the helm, navigating through the choppy waters of World War II's impact on the serene Bahamas. This film takes a detour from the typical grand historical epic to offer a closer look at Thomas Hudson's (George C. Scott) battle with solitude, estranged family ties, and the encroaching chaos of war. Directed by Schaffner, who reunites with Scott for another deep character study, this adaptation of Ernest Hemingway's posthumous novel promises an intriguing blend of personal and historical turmoil.

Crafting a narrative that ambitiously splits into three segments, the film attempts to weave together the complex tapestry of Hudson's life: his rocky relationships with his sons, a spark rekindled with a past love, and a concluding adventure that tests his might. Despite its noble intentions to do justice to Hemingway's rich prose, the film occasionally stumbles, failing to integrate these narrative strands seamlessly into a cohesive emotional journey. The younger cast members, despite their commendable efforts, sometimes veer into the realm of melodrama, detracting from the film's strive for authenticity.

At the core of ISLANDS IN THE STREAM is Scott's portrayal of Hudson, a character caught in the tug-of-war between his creative spirit and other responsibilities. The development of his relationship with his sons, from being distant to a heartfelt connection, beautifully illustrates the film's exploration of reconciliation and the power of family bonds.

The film's visual and auditory aesthetics stand out. Fred J. Koenekamp's cinematography and Jerry Goldsmith's score paint a picture of the Bahamas that's both idyllic and shadowed by the looming specter of conflict. Schaffner's direction brings a certain finesse to the project. A more dynamic approach could have better leveraged the cinematic medium to create a more engulfing narrative experience. Nevertheless, ISLANDS IN THE STREAM finds its stride in moments that strip away the literary pretenses, focusing instead on the raw and unfiltered realities its characters face.

As an adaptation, the film presents a fascinating case study in translating Hemingway's introspective literature into a visual journey. With some standout performances and picturesque settings, ISLANDS IN THE STREAM underscores the nuanced art of bringing stories from the page to the screen. While it may not achieve all of its ambitious goals, it serves as a poignant reflection on the complexities of human connections, the enduring impact of historical events on individual lives, and the timeless nature of storytelling.

For those drawn to Hemingway's literary genius, the intricacies of film adaptation, or the legacy of George C. Scott's illustrious career, ISLANDS IN THE STREAM offers a compelling, though imperfect, viewing experience. It grants a unique lens through which to view Hemingway's thematic preoccupations and stylistic trademarks, reimagined through the talent of one of cinema's greats. Although it doesn't capture the essence of Hemingway's storytelling mastery, the film explores adaptation, the broad spectrum of human emotion, and the enduring charm of a well-crafted narrative.

Special Features & Technical Specs:
– 1080p High-definition presentation on Blu-ray
– NEW Audio Commentary by Film Historian Samm Deighan (2023)
– NEW Survival Scars: Franklin J. Schaffner as Auteur – Video Essay by Daniel Kremer (2023)
– NEW For Whom The Camera Shoots – Daniel Kremer and Nat Segaloff Discuss Ernest Hemingway on Film (2023)
– Audio LPCM 2.0
– Aspect Ratio 2.35:1
– Optional English Subtitles
– Limited Edition slipcase with unique artwork

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[photo courtesy of VIAVISION, IMPRINT]

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