I want you to meet Reta, she’s a contortionist
In 1967 we were introduced to “Hair” by James Rado and Gerome Ragni, and music by Galt MacDermot. Music and theater was a way of saying what was controversial. For many, the arts were the only way of expressing what they were feeling. They feared speaking out. They feared the government. And they feared being ignored and marginalized. That time in America’s past is historical for many reasons.
It’s now 40 years later and for some, there is fear of speaking out; fear of the government; and fear of being ignored and marginalized - how things have changed. It’s almost as if we need “Hair” to make a comeback. Perhaps it has with “Across the Universe“.
The music of the Beatles with it’s modern renditions and stunning cinematography tell the same story of the Vietnam war. Analogies to current events are inevitable and likely warranted.
If you have 2 hours and a bit more to sit, listen, and think, then perhaps you will discover this film. I rediscovered what I felt the first time I saw “Hair”. With “Across the Universe” I discovered what I feel about war and what I fear about where things are headed. Will there be a SkyNet ? Will there be another Ice Age ? Is there a chance ?
I’ve seen a number of dud movies over the past couple of months. Thankfully, perseverance has paid off. I’m not inclined to make a significant political post. Rather, this is meant more as a supportive movie review. I’ll let the viewer decide what to make of it. Watch the movie is you can “spare a little change”.
