May-December In September

Hal Ashby's 1971 masterpiece Harold and Maude is one of those things that needs to be experienced to be explained. To say, "Oh, yeah, it's a great movie about this rich kid with a disapproving, controlling mother who is obsessed with death and he drives a hearse and he meets...

By Katey Margolis

September 24, 2009

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Hal Ashby's 1971 masterpiece Harold and Maude is one of those things that needs to be experienced to be explained. To say, "Oh, yeah, it's a great movie about this rich kid with a disapproving, controlling mother who is obsessed with death and he drives a hearse and he meets this weird old lady and they get to be really close" wouldn't even scratch the surface of what it is to see this film. Ashby's unique pacing maps the way for what is a wonderful love story, a commentary on materialism, politics, war, conventional thought and, ultimately, a reflection of what it is to be alive. Oh, and it's funny! Funny and tragic and wise. Bud Cort is unflappable as Harold, and Ruth Gordon's Maude is impossible to imagine being played by anyone else. The soundtrack is filled with the most lush songs Cat Stevens ever recorded, and they add a throat-tightening beauty. Everything about this rich and gorgeous movie is truly above reproach. Don't miss seeing this film on the big screen when the Inwood offers two nights of midnight showings this Friday and Saturday. The Inwood Theatre is located at 5458 W. Lovers Lane. Tickets are $8.50. Call 214-764-9106 or visit landmarktheatres.com for information.
Fri., Sept. 25; Sat., Sept. 26, 2009

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