Day 35- Movie 33. Absence of Malice (1981)

Absence of Malice is a very good movie about newspapers and reporters, about the ethical considerations they must make in the course of the job, and it is about the search for the truth, and how sometimes something untrue can be accurate. While I watched this movie, it made me sad to think that they won't make movies like this anymore. Newspaper reporters are an endangered species, and their influence on America seems to be at an all-time low. The 24 hour news networks and the internet changed all that. I'm not opposed to this per se, but I do lament the loss of the great newspaper movies (for example, the terrific All the President's Men).

I really believe this movie has been overlooked and forgotten in recent years. It was nominated for 3 Academy Awards, and in a different year, with different competition, might have won some. The movie features very strong performances by Paul Newman and Sally Field. These two acting heavyweights are a great pair, and work well with each other. I've always been a fan of Field- she gives such strong, willful performances. Newman is terrific here, as always. I was impressed with how effortless the performance appeared. It was easy for me to dismiss his performance because it never actually felt like he was acting. He's truly one of the greatest actors of all time, and he showed that here. I also have to mention Wilford Brimley, who gives a scene-stealing, unforgettable performance near the end. It's too bad his screen time was so short, because he was the best part of the entire film. Oh, and this movie is directed by Sydney Pollack. The people involved were all top notch.

While this is a good movie, it doesn't completely surprise me that it has been somewhat forgotten by mainstream audiences. The movie isn't as accessible as many films- you really have to work to understand the meaning and the movie's major themes. The story is complex and twisting, and if you aren't paying attention, it is easy to get lost. The movie never really comes out and says what it's all about- this is a movie that asks some tough questions about ethics and morality in the newspaper business. It holds up a mirror to the media, and the view isn't very pretty. It challenges all of us to do better and to take a hard look at what we consider right and wrong.

I really enjoyed this movie. It talks about integrity in a way that isn't preachy. I love movies that are entertaining, but also have some powerful lessons as well. This movie made me think about ethics and how easy it is to twist any action to make it appear in a positive light. While we can lie to ourselves and others all we want, ultimately, it's us that has to live with the truth. I would give this film a solid 7.5/10.

If you haven't seen this movie, I'd recommend checking it out. It's a solid, well acted drama. This isn't the type of film that begs to be seen- you really have to search it out. It's worth the effort though, as it's a really good movie.