Review of Box of Moonlight (1996) by Ashley A — 14 Nov 2008

So many reviews of this film are just black and white,looking solely at its' events,therefore missing almost the entirety of its' message; its' HEART. HEART is what drives this story-a kind-of "don't forget to stop and smell the roses" tale.

This is a movie so close to me,I find it difficult to be objective regarding it's simplistic beauty. It's the constant disparity/duality that exists between someone who "has his life squared away"-as does Al Fountain(John Turturro) in so many acceptable, societal ways, and "The Kid"(Sam Rockwell) who lives "off the grid," in a state of intentional bliss that really evokes pause and a further look in the mirror for the viewer.

It's actually The Kid who becomes the teacher of Life's Lessons-he not only inspires Al to relax and see what's really important-the beauty of your surroundings and the people in your life, he forces Al to actually have fun.

Through his brief, but monumental encounter with the Kid, a new Al emerges-a happier,better person. The truest master of dialogue since Billy Wilder,Tom DiCillo's hilarious scenes of "male-bonding" don't ever leave you.

Neither does this movie. "Go on in the water then,Fireball!" I love that line! Tom is beyond clever and the best inspiration I've ever known of. It further amazes me to read his book(the screenplay and diary) and know he was able to turn those frustrations into another brilliant work of art;what has come to be known as THE Cautionary Tale for Independent Filmmakers: LIVING IN OBLIVION.