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Being There (1979)- Trailer Included
Being There
DVD Cover
Writer: Jerzy Kosinski
Starring: Peter Sellers, Shirley MacLaine, Melvyn Douglas, Jack Warden, Ruth Attaway
“I like to Watch”- Chance
The line “Life Is A State of Mind” is etched on Peter Sellers gravestone, not through coincidence they are also the last words uttered in the satirical Comedy/Drama Being There.
The story of Chance the Gardner (Peter Sellers) an autistic TV addict who would rather observe than participate. Emotionally void, he has lived since childhood in affluent surroundings. Isolated he has never left the grounds and experiences the outside world only through the idiot box and his horticulture.
With the death of his benefactor Chance is forced to head out into the streets and begin a journey of enlightenment.
Accustomed to having meals prepared for him by his maid Louise (Ruth Attaway) and with no social skills, this virtual innocent wanders into a crowded metropolis aimlessly weilding a universal remote control for his only companion, television.
Fatalistic, circumstances soon see him having his first automobile ride and becoming nestled under the wing of a respected and successful Corporate Power Player (Melvyn Douglas) and his trophy wife (Shirley Maclaine).
“This is just like television, only you can see much further”-Chance
Misinterpruted every step of the way, Chance sprouts empty words that he has heard on TV and simple truths about natures cycle that the intellectual elite embrace as wisdom.
“Mr. Gardner, uh, my editors and I have been wondering if you would consider writing a book for us, something about your um, political philosophy, what do you say?” – Chance
Subtle and insightful the simple, ego free Chance exudes complexity and like the film what appears on the surface to be easily understood is instead a profound parody of arrogance and predjudice.
“Yes. In the garden, growth has it seasons. First comes spring and summer, but then we have fall and winter. And then we get spring and summer again.” – Chance
I am just a Gardner, why did they make the end credits into a blooper reel and reveal my secret.
John Doe Says
Being There is a moving and always intelligent study of emotions and social interaction. Entertaining and inspiring with human comedy, a quiet protest about the state of civilization and those in power. Hilarious and heartbreaking, seldom do films aspire to such heights and reach them.
Directed by cinematic revolutionary Hal Ashby (Harold and Maude, The Last Detail, Shampoo, Bound For Glory), renowned for his eccentricities and ability to bring out unique performances in his players. The Directors empathy for the shunned and down trodden never crosses the line into sentimental, his eye sees a unique truth.
Confused actor Peter Sellers (Pink Panther, The Party, Murder By Death, Dr Strangelove, the Ladykillers) was an empty vessel constantly needing to be defined by the fictional characters he played. The role of Chance the Gardner was the closest to his heart. It has often been speculated that Sellers saw himself as he read the book.
Now viewed as arguably Sellers finest moment onscreen he patterened the distinctive voice after his idol Stan Laurel (Laurel and Hardy)
The script is poetic, the cinematography richly observant. The sound, score and editing create imagery of unforgettable texture. The cinematic prowess is subtle and delicate, captivating the subconcious as you ponder the true meaning of the text.
An inspiration to John Doe about appreciating what is happening now, rather than in the past or future. Invigorating and contemplative, the films ambiguos finale and scene stealing closing credits will stay with you forever. This is the film Forest Gump wanted to be.
The DVD:
Transfer: Widescreen/2.0 Dolby Digital
Extras: cast and Crew Bio Trailer and Awards.
Below you can enjoy the trailer
Hardly anyone gets what this film is about ...
It's about Christ ... and how everyone treated Him and judged Him as a dolt because he spoke too simply ... in parables ...
Hence why 'Chancy' Gardner walks on water at the end ...
David ...
Film & TV on DVD
There are definetly Christ analogies throughout the plot and totally agree with you about the ending.
His simplicity is what allows for interpretation.
I was trying not to give away spoilers but i guess its unavoidable once you start discussing the films deeper meaning.
I thought you would dig this film, what a screenplay.
Horrorphile
I love this film.
The late great Hal Ashby, Hollywood's true outsider.
The outtakes which feature in one version of the movie during the end credits where Chancey has to relate a message from a pimp is hilarious!
Film & TV on DVD
Sellers blamed the blooper end credits for not winning the best actor Oscar. He said it took audiences out of the film. Personally i dig it too for breaking the illusion.
Horrorphile
Who did he lose to?
Film & TV on DVD
I think there may have been some truth in his statement about 1979 audiences.
I read the novel so long ago, I remember liking it but the movie has become such a favourite I havent revisited it.
Shameful I know.
Movies and Life
I can't believe I've never heard of this film.....it sounds like the kind of film I really feel like seeing......I hope my local has it....
Tracy
Postmodern Critic
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Padsoc
Film & TV on DVD
It is available on DVD in Oz and shouldn't be to hard to find.
Glad to entertain Postmodern
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Horrorphile
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