MONDAY MUSINGS - FAVORITE LOVE STORIES IN FILM
In the midst of juggling two of my new books, Rule Number One and His Kind of Music, I thought it might be fun to consider what some of my favorite movie love stories are. There’s a lot to choose from, but here are a handful, it wouldn’t surprise me if you’ve never watched or even heard of them. Once I completed the list, I realized it’s quite a diverse list. They range from contemporary to historical romance. Enjoy.
The Quiet Man - This is essentially a clash of cultures set in mid-20th century Ireland. John Wayne's character, an American returning to his ancestral home, fancies a local Irish girl, played by Maureen O'Hara. But to court her, he must deal with the quirks of the local social customs and traditions. They do finally get their happily-ever-after, but not without a struggle against her brother, the Irish culture, and their own histories and emotions. This scene shows their initial meeting, and the instant attraction that takes some doing to develop into love. https://youtu.be/MkQyRE0byBI
The Adjustment Bureau - this is a fanciful tale of two people, one played by Matt Damon and the other by Emily Blunt, who's meant-to-be modern day relationship seems to face obstacle after obstacle. In the end they learn it's all part of a master plan, but one they have to edit themselves. The happily-ever-after is eventually there for them, but it takes a mutual commitment and a leap of faith to get there. Here's the movie trailer. https://youtu.be/fSeWHl1PaKs.
LadyHawke - This is the story of two lovers, meant to be together but forever separated by a curse, played by Rutger Hauer and Michelle Pfeiffer. It’s a fanciful tale set in medieval times, the quest for a solution to a diabolical dilemma. It takes perseverance, commitment, and some real heroics from a couple of unlikely accomplices. in the end, love conquers all, reuniting the couple as they were meant to be. Watch this fan-made trailer for a peek at the film. https://youtu.be/ROclcVIWmn8.
El Cid - this is another historical romance, inspired by real historic characters caught up in the struggle between Christian and Islamic forces in 11th century Spain. Played by legendary actors Charlton Heston and Sophia Loren, the two must negotiate separate paths that cross and diverge before they merge into a common thread for all eternity. It's hard to imagine more formidable obstacles to love, and the happily-ever-after they find is not the typical ending, although it’s hard to imagine a couple with a more dedicated, timeless, indomitable love. Watch the trailer. https://youtu.be/BE7QDaBoo_4