To Kill A Mockingbird

This would have to be one of the most beloved films of all time which is based on one of the most beloved books of all time. With what is considered one of cinemas greatest characters.

It has been a while since I have read the book 'To Kill A Mockingbird'. Like many children I studied it when I was in school. I remember enjoying it and finding it to be an interesting story. Very emotional and thought provoking.

My regular readers will know that racism is not a topic that I understand fully. I have not lived a racist life and come into contact with it in my everyday life. I do though understand how ignorant people can be and be fearful of what they do not know. This lack of understanding does not prohibit me from enjoying the film. Author Harper Lee has created a brilliant story of a family and the events that affect their lives. She has populated this story with some wonderful characters that you come to care about deeply over the course of the story. Horton Foote has done an excellent job of adapting the book for film. The story was a little different to what I remembered it from the book. I thought the trial of Tom Robinson was a bigger part of the plot. It does not come into play until the end. This is not a bad thing but just an observation. The Boo Radley sub plot is certainly an interesting one as well even if it has become some what a cliche.

Gregory Peck is one of the best actors of all time. And he is perfect to play Atticus Finch. This is not a big showy type character that wants to steal the limelight. The major focus of the story is on the children, so Gregory does not let his character steal the show. He plays Atticus with a nice quiet dignity that makes him a believable character and someone you want to root for when he gets to the trial. Mary Badham is delightful as Scout. With the story seen trough her eyes, Mary must carry the film and she does an excellent job of it. You feel like she is a normal child and not an actor playing one. Equally as good is Phillip Alford as Jem. Phillip and Mary have a really nice chemistry that makes them feel like real brother and sister. While his role is minor a young Robert Duvall has a very effective presence at the end of the film.The rest of the cast are excellent in their smaller roles.

A brilliant story told in a brilliant way. The simplicity of the way it is told and directed make it a refreshing reminder that you do not need to be big and flashy to tell a good story.