Review of On Golden Pond (1981) by Tungis G — 23 Mar 2014
Just watched this for the first time since I did back in the 80's. It has fared well all these years, probably because it's a relatable character story and the relationships drive the plots.
Yes it's flawed. Yes it's simplistic to the point of being cliche at times. But it endures despite it's flaws. Many good movies are flawed as this is. It doesn't relish in it's conflicts and while most consider this a flaw I consider it a positive. I prefer more subtle films anyways; I don't care what exactly is the issue between father and daughter. Sex abuse? Physical violence? Mental abuse? Adding more of that wouldn't make the picture any better for me, and it would preclude my kids from seeing it.
Which by the way my animated loving 7 and 9 year olds, while griping at first, we're drawn into this film once it got going and the shorter run time made it a good time. Wait, almost 2 hours is a short run time? I guess time flies while your enjoying yourself.
To those critics that say this story is too sweet; um, it's a story about death and preparing to die. This film gracefully is full of substance if you're the type that doesn't need to be bashed over the head with it to get it. The world needs more films like this that rely on strength of substance than on plot device; that are relatable in a real way and honest enough to allow the relation to happen; that have real-world value and are accessible enough for it to be a benefit to the real-world.
This review of On Golden Pond (1981) was written by Tungis G on 23 Mar 2014.
On Golden Pond has generally received very positive reviews.
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