Product: Lilies of the Field [VHS] (1963)
Rating: 5.0
A movie triumph
I've read some of the other reviews for this movie, both pros and cons. I think people really need to take this movie for what it is, rather than what it could (or should) be.This was Poiter's breakout role. He had appeared in smaller roles leading up to this, and he was a very likable personality. I truly believe he won the Academy Award for Best Actor because people really responded to this newly arrived negro actor; whose character, personality and creativity were a refreshing break from the status quo.Also, the movie was made on a shoestring budget of just $240,000, which was a lot of money almost 50 years ago, but was still small potatoes compared to the average film. It had an "indie" feel to it, was a simple movie about faith, (which really appealed to people back then and now.)It was the dark horse nomination, because of its stature, subject matter, and main characters, but it was so warmly received at the time, it really overcame a lot of established attitudes. It was the kind of movie people really loved to love.Poiter plays something of a "magic negro" in this picture. You'll have to read up on that term, but it basically a black man who is completely non-threatening to whites, is always altruistic and trustable, and basically sacrifices himself for the good of the cause. There are a long list of movies with this character, and they are not bad movies at all. I appeals strongly to the white psyche, and makes black people more accessible. Poiter delivers this like a charm, and it won him the award.The movie itself was nominated for Best Picture, which is amazing when you consider the budget and production values. Like I said, its a movie people love to love. Its simple, engaging, tremendously charming, and appeals to all people on many levels. Its the kind of movie that is universally appealing.I think I watched it on TV when I was about 5 or 6, and I remember crying at the end. I found it very touching and cathartic when Homer signs his name at the top of the chapel. And of course, the uplifting and iconic "Amen" song, which transcends the movie itself and creates a persona of its own, (like the whistling tune from Bridge Over the River Kwai.) You can't help hum and sing along, as it stays with you for days; reminding you of the touching themes of the movie.Probably the strongest element of the movie, and often overlooked, is the very thematic and well-arranged musical score by Jerry Goldsmith, (same composer of the Waltons and dozens of other theme songs.) He was a master of this genre, and this was one of this best. The score was well applied, and helped the movie achieve its emotional goals.Its one of those "special movies" that achieves an emotional space few movies attain. Its what most people get involved with motion pictures for. It totally stands on its own, and has a very sincere honesty and homeyness that is totally endearing and acceptable. Like a good friend.Lilies of the Field still makes me cry. (And I don't totally know why.)