Tags
1980's, Ann Sothern, Bette Davis, Drama, Lillian Gish, Lindsay Anderson, The Whales of August, Vincent Price
Film Title
The Whales of August
Director
Lindsay Anderson
Starring
- Lillian Gish as Sarah Webber
- Bette Davis as Libby Strong
- Vincent Price as Mr. Maranov
- Ann Sothern as Tisha Doughty
A splendid cast of cinematic icons stars in The Whales of August; a warm, subtly moving and charming story of growing old and reflecting on life in the twilight years, that takes place over the course of a day and a half.
On a Maine island in an old-fashioned cottage, aging Sarah Webber lives with her older sister Libby Strong. Sarah is the genial, warm yet firm sister, whereas Libby, who has gone blind, is bitter and cantankerous towards everyone around her. The cottage they live in is one they have been linked to for decades. As young ladies, they would stay and watch as the whales passed by. Now all those years later, the two sisters are living together in the autumn of their lives. Yet while there is love between them, Libby’s mean streak and bleak outlook put her at odds with sincere Sarah, who wants to still do things while she’s able to. As the two attempt to make a sort of compromise, they begin to recall their past adventures and events in their lives. Both women are widowed and craving a sense of companionship, but the waspish Libby pushes people away while Sarah is gregarious. Their childhood friend, well-meaning but nosy Tisha Doughty stops by to check on them and reminisces on their friendships over the long years. Also passing by is Mr. Maranov, a member of Russian nobility who is now penniless and depends on the kindness of others. Maranov takes a shine to the sprightly Sarah and this causes her to think of the husband she lost and what she should do about Libby. Should she ask for help with her difficult sister? Or should she stick with her and attempt to reach her buried good side in the hopes of mending their often fractious relationship?
With a natural sense of direction, Lindsay Anderson creates a film of moving warmth and tenderness. He doesn’t overplay anything and makes do with the small but very beautiful setting of Maine. There is no visual trickery to speak of, just good old-fashioned directing that is simple to follow. He allows the actors to really show their ability and never lets them resort to histrionics. In fact, one of my worries before watching The Whales of August was that it would be very dull. I was pleased when I found that the film was anything but. There are those who will say that nothing much happens during the course of the movie. In fact, quite a lot of things takes place over the day and the half the movie covers. It just doesn’t do it in an overly dramatic way, everything is subtle and very authentic. And to be honest, this movie wouldn’t have worked if it was melodramatic and over the top. The tone just feels so right in this movie and while some of it is a bit slow, it is a minor niggle in a beautiful film examining how we react to growing older and the passage of time. There is also a welcome lack of sentimentality to The Whales of August, which benefits the movie hugely. Sure the film is warm and sweet, but it never becomes cloying in the slightest due to the precise direction, subtly drawn drama and work of the actors. A fleeting and very wistful score goes to the heart of the themes on show and creates the nostalgic longing for the past that is expressed by many of the characters.
Lillian Gish, who was 93 at the time of making this movie, is a complete marvel. Sprightly and filled with guile and warmth, she makes Sarah such a beautifully sympathetic character. I liked how Gish didn’t resort to making Sarah just a saint, she showed that she could be firm and decisive, while still recalling the days of her youth with a fondness and bittersweet taste. This was the last film role for Lillian Gish after a career spanning multiple decades, and it was a stunning send off to a gifted actress. Bette Davis, who was old at the time and suffering with her health, also delivers a splendid performance. She is extremely adept at showcasing Libby’s bitterness brought on by age and blindness, but through subtle gestures we see that underneath everything she just wants someone to care for. Davis was not exactly known for her subtlety in her performances, but her work here shows a moving natural progression from waspish to ultimately longing and caring. Vincent Price, in a non-horror role, is suitably amiable and full of grace as Mr Maranov who becomes fond of Sarah. Ann Sothern is utterly delightful as the slightly nosy but always loyal best friend to the sisters.
An evocative study of age, the memories we collect and the autumn years of one’s life, The Whales of August is a beautifully rendered movie, given depth by wonderful direction and especially the work of silver screen legends Lillian Gish and Bette Davis.
fragglerocking said:
I must seek this out Vinnie, sounds delightful. Can’t imagine being 92 and still working!
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
It’s really moving and beautifully done. This was a stunning farewell for Lillian Gish.
LikeLiked by 1 person
beetleypete said:
I haven’t seen this since it came out, probably in the late 1980s. I remember being enthralled by Lillian Gish at the time, and thinking it was a wonderful, gentle film, with the elderly cast at their very best. Nice to see you reviewing films like this, V. That is why my estimation of you is so high!
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Gish was sublime in this movie, just so subtle and warm. Can’t believe she was 93. You really have a high estimation of me? Cheers Pete.
LikeLike
beetleypete said:
Most young film bloggers just churn out crap about blockbusters and US comedies. You look further back, and find some gems. Hence my high estimation…
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I like to be an individual Pete. On occasion, I will review some crappy movies and talk about finely formed buttocks, but hidden gems are sometimes more my thing.
LikeLike
beetleypete said:
I always look for the gems between those bum cheeks mate!
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Haha. Although to be fair Pete, I think everyone likes to look at a peachy pair of buttocks once in a while. Wouldn’t you agree?
LikeLike
beetleypete said:
I’m more of a leg man myself…
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Really. It seems to be breasts, legs and bums are the main winners with many men.
LikeLike
Keith said:
Sounds absolutely fabulous. Completely unfamiliar with it. Really appreciate you writing about it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
It’s a real sweet, heartwarming watch Keith. If you love movies with stars from Hollywood’s Golden Age, you’ll love this movie.
LikeLike
Damien Riley said:
I liked your write up. It’s nice to hear that a movie with actors of such an advanced age can be so engaging.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
The way I see it, the people may be old, but their undeniable is still there as beautiful as ever.
LikeLiked by 1 person
ruth said:
I hadn’t even heard of this Vinnie, thanks for bringing it to my attention! I LOVE Bette Davis in All About Eve, but I haven’t seen anything Vincent Price is in, I need to rectify that!
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I love Bette Davis too, she was so talented. Considering she wasn’t in the best of health when making this film, her performance is wonderful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lynz Real Cooking said:
thanks for the review sounds very good!
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
It’s a really heartfelt movie.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lynz Real Cooking said:
I love those kinds, my favorites and we need some good ones to watch! Will check it out!
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I hope you enjoy it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lynz Real Cooking said:
the kids and i are always struggling and pick out horrible movies that we dont finish so I am sure we will!
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
This movie is far from horrible.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lynz Real Cooking said:
It sounds lovely! We always laugh at our horrible picks and then I remember people blog and do movie reviews! So I will write this one down!
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I’m happy to recommend movie gems to others.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lynz Real Cooking said:
Thanks x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Cindy Bruchman said:
So glad you reviewed this, Vinnieh. I saw it sooo long ago I don’t remember much. A revisit is in store! Thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
This was my first time viewing the film, I’m glad I decided to view it. I found it quite moving and just a really nice movie. Definitely revisit if Cindy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Afzal Moolla said:
haven’t seen this. will do … Thanks again
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
It’s an excellent movie.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Afzal Moolla said:
looking forward to seeing it. thanks again, friend
LikeLiked by 1 person
By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Nice choice and review Vinnie. This was such a beautiful movie.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Gish and Davis were just so luminous in the film and showed the talent that gave them such long and extraordinary careers. Can’t believe that Lillian Gish was 93 at the time of filming.
LikeLiked by 1 person
In My Cluttered Attic said:
Saw this one and loved it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
It’s a lovely gem isn’t it? It was great to see Lillian Gish and Bette Davis starting opposite each other.
LikeLike
In My Cluttered Attic said:
They were great together as was Vincent Price playing against type. This movie was a pleasant surprise.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I loved seeing these veterans show of their huge skill set. None of them put a foot wrong because of how dedicated and talented they all were. Just full of so much commitment, what outstanding and iconic stars they were.
LikeLike
In My Cluttered Attic said:
When quality actors are giving such a great script to work with they really can make your believe what your seeing as being real.
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
It’s the perfect combination.
LikeLiked by 1 person
anotherday2paradise said:
This sounds like my kind of movie. I’m going to look for it. Thanks so much, Vinnieh. đŸ™‚
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
I’m thrilled to hear that. It’s a lovely gentle film that doesn’t feel sentimental or cloying.
LikeLiked by 1 person
anotherday2paradise said:
Perfect! đŸ™‚
LikeLiked by 1 person
vinnieh said:
Thank you for checking my work out. Hope you find it all interesting.
LikeLiked by 1 person