Film Review: “Always” (1989)
“Always,” directed by Steven Spielberg, is a romantic drama film that combines elements of fantasy and adventure to tell a poignant story about love, loss, and redemption. The film stars Richard Dreyfuss, Holly Hunter, and John Goodman, and is a remake of the 1943 film “A Guy Named Joe.”
Plot Summary
The film follows Pete Sandich (Richard Dreyfuss), a daredevil aerial firefighter who loses his life in a heroic act. In the afterlife, Pete is tasked by an angel named Hap (Audrey Hepburn in her final film role) to mentor a young pilot named Ted Baker (Brad Johnson). Through this mentorship, Pete learns to let go of his earthly attachments, particularly his deep love for his girlfriend, Dorinda Durston (Holly Hunter). As Pete watches from the afterlife, he helps Ted become a better pilot and person, ultimately leading to Ted and Dorinda falling in love.
Cinematic Elements
- Direction and Cinematography: Steven Spielberg’s direction is masterful, combining his knack for heartfelt storytelling with stunning aerial sequences. The cinematography by Mikael Salomon beautifully captures the danger and excitement of aerial firefighting.
- Performances: Richard Dreyfuss brings a charming yet bittersweet depth to Pete, while Holly Hunter delivers a strong performance as Dorinda, portraying her grief and eventual healing. John Goodman provides excellent support as Al Yackey, Pete’s best friend.
- Music: The score by John Williams enhances the emotional depth of the film, blending seamlessly with the narrative’s highs and lows.
Lessons Learned
- Selflessness and Sacrifice: Pete’s journey teaches us the importance of selflessness and the power of sacrifice. By putting others’ needs before his own, he finds redemption and peace.
- Letting Go and Moving On: The film emphasizes the necessity of letting go of the past to embrace the future. Pete’s struggle to release his earthly ties to Dorinda and guide Ted symbolizes this crucial life lesson.
- Love Transcends Boundaries: “Always” portrays love as a force that transcends life and death. Pete’s enduring love for Dorinda and his desire to see her happy even after his death underscores the timeless nature of true love.
- Mentorship and Legacy: The story highlights the importance of mentorship and the impact one can have on another’s life. Pete’s guidance helps Ted become a better person, showing that our influence continues even after we are gone.
Final Thoughts
“Always” is a touching film that blends fantasy with heartfelt drama, reminding viewers of the enduring nature of love and the importance of selflessness. Spielberg’s direction, combined with strong performances and a beautiful score, makes “Always” a memorable cinematic experience.
Sources
This review captures the essence of “Always” and underscores its valuable lessons, making it a film worth watching and reflecting upon.
Special Note – Memoirs Of Shri Mataji:
‘Always’ – Sahaja Yogi Wolfgang from Austria
Mother watched a film called Always with some yogis, it’s the story of a couple who are very much in love and then the man dies but he cannot let go and remains as a ghost to watch over his widow. Shri Mataji* remarked that this is what really happens, sometimes.
*Biography of Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi
Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi is a renowned spiritual leader who has been guiding seekers of truth since the 1970s. She achieved full self-realization on May 5, 1970, and since then, she has been revered as a True Spiritual Guru. Shri Mataji is the founder of Sahaja Yoga Meditation, a practice that aims to awaken the latent spiritual energy known as Kundalini Shakti. This awakening can only be facilitated by an authorized soul, and Shri Mataji has dedicated her life to helping people achieve spiritual enlightenment through Sahaja Yoga.