Review of Places in the Heart (1984) by Thomas P — 14 Nov 2013

Superlative Americana period-piece moviemaking.

Heart-felt throughout - quietly shocking in its normalcy. A fresh take on a surprisingly simple story. This. Is. Brilliant.

It will move you in it's quiet complexities of emotion and character authenticity, and for me, spiritual transcendence thru to the awe-inspiring final communion.

I think this is what the meandering film Tree Of Life wished it could be.

And Tyler Perry has been trying to convey - but evidently missing -.

a truly redemptive church service like the one here.

I can't express enough the subtle power that is here.

Some will overlook the greatness bc of the quietness of its strength, but those who are thoughtful and considerate will be overwhelmingly touched and gratified. On reflection of the stories' ups and downs, there is a reality of hard country living that shines thru in the kindnesses and hard-fought triumphs that are portrayed by Sally Fields's well deserved Oscar-winning turn here.

*This is no minor family drama*.

- don't be fooled by the mismatched reviewers.

It touches on these themes:

The impact of a meaningless death, grief, racism, all-too-common adult bullying, adultery, betrayal, lost love,manipulation by unjust bankers n businessmen, but also justice, tenacity, the power of deep love, reconciliation, and in the finale - the power of forgiveness and ultimate redemption.

If you let it, this movie will overpower you with its gentle graces, just as its characters triumph over their adversities.

Let it in.

Be changed for the better.

It absolutely bears repeat viewings.

Based on the stories and youthful memories of Director Benton in his Texan small-town.

A perfect movie - 5/5.