What to say about ROOM? We braved the busy Hwy. 280 Valentine's Day traffic to eat supper and trek across town to see this movie at the only theater where it was playing... if I had to do over again, I think we would just stay in! Which is kind of the perfect segue to the movie.5 year old Jack was born in ROOM, the shed with a skylight where his mother lives as a captive of "Old Nick," who visits every night and brings them Sunday treats -- except when he decides not to, and instead cuts the power and leaves Ma and Jack to freeze or starve.
On the one hand it's a terrifying portrait of what cruelty humans are capable of, and on the other it's an inspiring look at the power of a mother's love to create something beautiful for her child, even in the midst of horror and despair.
Ma tells Jack he will love the world, and she coaches him on what he needs to do to help them get out of ROOM. He's scared, so scared -- not just of the unknown, but of leaving Ma. He's only 5, and she's all he's known. I leave it to you to watch the movie and find out what happens.
Maybe I thought of this book when I read the novel, but I don't remember making that connection back then. It's so touching, Jack's need to name things and greet them and say goodbye to them... so very child-like, and a good reminder to those of us writing for children. There is magic in everything when we're children, and part of our job as creators of books for children is to re-discover that magic. (Writing this as a reminder for myself, as I continue revising a dear-to-me verse novel!)
ROOM has been nominated for a few Oscars, including Best Picture. I don't think it will win -- really think Leo diCaprio and REVENANT will carry the night -- but please do see this movie, with a loved one tucked close beside you.
I didn't think I wanted to see this movie, but another friend recommended it, and now with your urging, I'm putting it on my list. "There's magic in everything when we're children..." Maybe that's why I love children's books so much. They remind me of the magic in our world.
ReplyDeleteI saw ROOM and knew that while I adore the performances, it's a shame that they boy wasn't nominated, he should have been, for Best Actor, I don't know if I'll see it again soon. It hits you sideways. Love the direction and script as well. Larson will win Best Actress. I'll tell you, Irene, it's a tough sit in many ways, but please check out SHORT TERM 12 when you can. That's when I knew Brie Larson is here to stay. Oh, I can't wait to hear more about this novel in verse in due time.
ReplyDeleteI saw ROOM and knew that while I adore the performances, it's a shame that they boy wasn't nominated, he should have been, for Best Actor, I don't know if I'll see it again soon. It hits you sideways. Love the direction and script as well. Larson will win Best Actress. I'll tell you, Irene, it's a tough sit in many ways, but please check out SHORT TERM 12 when you can. That's when I knew Brie Larson is here to stay. Oh, I can't wait to hear more about this novel in verse in due time.
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