Fear, tension, and paranoia seem to have set in since last Tuesday's horrible events, even at the cinema. While the recall of a "Spider-Man" trailer from cinemas which revolves around a giant web spun between the Twin Towers seems respectful, I note that nobody has attempted to pull Spielberg's "A.I." from release, even though it too features the World Trade Center, except half-submerged after some future environmental catastrophe.
It's hard to avoid the New York skyline, especially in films and on TV. If it wasn't so magnificent and iconic it might not have attracted such a symbolic hit in the first place. But here's a conundrum: should Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ show the classic Gene Kelly musical "On The Town", scheduled for two Saturdays' time? It's a celebration of New York from a time (1949) before the Trade Centre was even built. Would it be in poor taste to show it? Or might it not act as a counterpoint to all the bad news? Wouldn't a celebration help right now?
If Hollywood and cinema in general has a job at times of strife, it's to provide escapism. Show all the MGM musicals of the late 1940s and early 50s! I went to see "Moulin Rouge" again at the weekend, and any sense of accumulated collective gloom was lifted for two hours. The audience even applauded at the end (and this was a matinee). This is a film that comes into its own when you're feeling blue. Even "A.I.", which has some sad moments, is ultimately an uplifter (it might not have been in Kubrick's hands, but you know Spielberg... )
If you want a real feel-good movie though, it has to be Jean-Pierre Jeunet's latest, the life affirming "΄΅³ΎΓ©±τΎ±±π", released next week. If that doesn't put a smile on your face, nothing will.
Do you agree with Mr Collins? Have you say on the Films .
Andrew Collins presents Back Row on on Saturday September 22nd at 5.30pm. You can listen to Back Row then, or Radio 4 at any time, using RealPlayer on your computer.
