Wrestling Ernest Hemingway (1993)
Frank, a retired Irish seaman, and Walter, a retired Cuban barber, are two lonely old men trapped in the emptiness of their own lives. When they meet in a park Frank is able to start a conversation after several attempts. They begin to spend time together and become friends. But because of their different characters they often quarrel with each other and finally seperate after Frank misbehaves to Walter's friend Elaine.
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Why this film got so little recognition is beyond me. It is delightful, poignant, touching and superbly acted, written and performed. It's the story of two men of very different backgrounds and personalities who meet in their twilight years. Harris is exquisite in portraying an aging sea captain in all his rough and hoary glory who meets and, in his terrible loneliness, befriends a Cuban expatriate portrayed by Duvall. Duvall is so adept in his roll, if you hadn't read the credits, it would be difficult to discern it was him. Shirley McClean and Sandra Bullock are excellent as cast in this film. It's just wonderful. Too bad it's not yet on DVD, but get it on VHS.
The setting of this story is in Florida , obviously a retirement area. Walter has succumbed to a regimental routine to pass the time away , always a gentleman , giving an image of proper conduct .Frank , on the other hand , is rough around the edges and refuses to give into getting old in his own stubborn way . In somewhat of a "Odd Couple" theme they meet and learn a little about how each other have struggled to find their ways, yet holding on to their identities as a men while age overcomes them. I really love this movie because it shows the side of desperation many encounter when get when they get old. Their lives start to loose meaning and they have to fill the void with memories and stories to pass the time away. Denial and refusing to give in , the characters really give us a taste of what life can come to .
Leisurely-paced, remarkably sweet and entertaining character study about an elderly Irish codger in Florida striking up an uneasy friendship with a retired Cuban barber. Not especially original or revealing, but wonderfully acted and directed, with a beautiful sense of atmosphere. Written by 21-year-old Steve Conrad, whose natural-flowing dialogue and character development admirably shucks a formulaic pattern. In the leads, Robert Duvall and Richard Harris prove to be a striking screen match (at times, they may struggle with their characters' overall make-up, yet they create genuine people--not caricatures); Shirley MacLaine is also fine in a supporting role (in her book, "Thank My Lucky Stars", MacLaine gives hint this film wasn't a positive experience, though you wouldn't guess it from the end results or from MacLaine's excellent performance). Sandra Bullock also shines as a waitress. Not a blockbuster or a career watermark for anyone, but a gentle, moving film that leaves a thoughtful trace of its passion for life behind. *** from ****
What a great film! Being a huge Sandra Bullock fan since 95, I knew I had to buy this. I was not let down at all. It is one of my all time favorites! Its a shame that many people don't know about it. Its filled with touching and hilarious moments with outstanding acting and a sweet story! Go get Wrestling Ernest Hemingway today!