"The Pentium Age": Life Needs Miracles

Kaya 2022-04-22 07:01:37

Always hear the most poignant movement at the moment of despair,
always see the most dazzling starlight at the moment when the tears are wiped away!

- "The Pentium Age" (Seabiscuit)

The United States in the 1930s was in the midst of the Great Depression. The lingering haze of war, coupled with skyrocketing unemployment, has weighed on the American people. Several protagonists of this film are little people struggling in this era. Charles Howard was originally a successful businessman, but the misfortune of losing his son in middle age shattered his family; Rhett Pollard's dream was to be a first-class jockey, but forced to make a living, he had to fight in the underground boxing match. Fighting with people; Tom Smith is a horse and horse training horse, but no one appreciates it, and he is unhappy.

The fortunes of three distressed men are turned around by an old racehorse named "Hard Biscuit". Hard biscuits are short in stature and have inflexible legs, and are discarded as defective products. However, its unyielding nature and tenacious fighting spirit have not been wiped out. Three new owners have succeeded in awakening its potential and making it shine in the competition. The success of the hard biscuit inspired its owner, and at the same time inspired the American people who were struggling at the bottom, and its deeds became a legend in the history of horse racing...

The film "The Running Times" was adapted from Lola Hearen Bran's best-selling novel also tells a story based on a true historical event. With the theme of breaking through the shackles of fate and tenaciously winning, it once again shattered the cocoon that was wrapped in the heart of Hollywood's discerning fans. Let the heart sinking in comfort and utilitarianism re-taste the true meaning of life in the tingling pain. This awakened passion does not belong to the excitement caused by sensory stimulation, and it is even more incompatible with the self-expansion caused by the overflowing heroic complex. It comes from the sense of belonging of small people on and off the screen, and also from the spiritual resonance that is gradually triggered by many emotions such as frustration, loneliness, stubbornness, and resistance. The director of this film did not focus on the event itself to highlight the legendary color, but focused on depicting the hearts of the characters, striving to build an emotional chasm between the story and the audience.

Perhaps, the harsh critics of the past will deride such works as too hypocritical and illusory. Perhaps, the inspiration of spiritual power to people is always highlighted in a period of extreme material scarcity. In today's restless age of desire, the idea of ​​"The Age of Pentium" seems a little out of date. Perhaps when the years are changing and the diversity of human values ​​is full of diversification, it seems a far-fetched excuse to talk about some things that will not fade with the passage of time, nor will they die out due to the change of the times. But ask yourself, there are very few people nowadays who can still believe in and abide by the value concept of "scholars die for confidants".

The performances of the actors in "The Pentium Age" are in line with the style pursued by the film. They are neither unassuming nor fashionable, and have a warm nostalgic color. The jockey Rhett played by Toby Maguire still vaguely retains the simplicity and jerky in "The Cider House Rules", but it is a little more arrogant. The roles of Jeff Bridges and Chris Cooper are more low-key and more challenging. Many times, they can only express the inner emotions of the characters with subtle facial expressions and limited body language. Remember the unfortunate egg in "Frozen"? William. Messi's cameo in this film is also a highlight that cannot be ignored. The neurotic announcer adds a touch of humor to this serious film. Seeing how he used "Eighteen Weapons" in front of the microphone to create an atmosphere for the broadcast, I couldn't help but secretly admire Ang Lee's discerning eyes and deep skills in choosing actors for roles!

The golden yellow and light gray images presented in the film bring the audience back to the United States seventy years ago, and the magnificent scenes displayed in the hustle and bustle of the racecourse and the lofty aspirations promoted by the characters moved the audience not only across races. , but also across time and space and beliefs. The crowd on the screen was still cheering, and all the voices gradually faded away, but my heart was still moved by the roaring hooves of the horses...

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Extended Reading

Seabiscuit quotes

  • Tom Smith: You know, you don't throw a whole life away just 'cause he's banged up a little.

  • Tom Smith: Every horse is good for something.