Review of A Prairie Home Companion (2006) by Jordan G — 10 Jul 2009

Seeing this film now, after the death of it's legendary director changes much of it's meaning, It is in fact hard to see it as anything but a swansong, an epitaph. It works remarkably well on this level however, so well that Altman must have planned it as such. Like much of his works, 'The Player' for example, this is a inside look behind the scenes of the entertainment world, although here we are shown a part of that world that is dying. The titular radio show is apparently out of time and out of it's era, much like the man must have felt at 81. What set's this film apart from Altman's other inquiries into the world behind the camera is the innate joy present. It appears that Altman looking back found a much more optimistic view of his career and the industry that fostered and fought him in equal measure throughout it.

There is death inherent in every scene and every theme but it never feels ominous, it is in fact shown to be beautiful. Not a thing to be feared or repressed by but a liberating force, a freedom, and it's comforting to see that Altman left with such a peaceful viewpoint. The film itself besides this is nothing revolutionary but it is a lot of fun. There are plenty of jokes all of which are funny, although some because they're so bad, some simple songs that everyone can enjoy and a little bit of moving drama for good measure. It is much like I assume any other episode of ' A Prairie Home Companion' would've been.

The films denouement shows the tearing down of the set, the destruction and completion of it's death, but there is hope. As the credits roll the film cuts back to the final musical number and we are shown that there is new life to come, not only for the stage assistant but for the show, the industry and the world. We're told that there is no want or need for such a show, but we're shown something rather different. There is still a part of all of us that longs for this kind of life, this kind of simple happiness and because of that the show will live on forever, as I'm sure will the man.