This has been one of the most challenging weeks to process. It has thrown millions for a loop who believed in the power of truth. This week has changed the paradigm for our world and the future of our country. America is being thrust into the limelight of an alternate timeline that could initiate devastating results. As a 75-year-old woman, I have lived through many rough moments. Young people ask me if I have ever witnessed our current trajectory before. I must reply that I have lived through the turbulent ’60s, Kent State, the anger from the Vietnam War, the multiple assassins of key leaders including John, Robert, and Martin, the battle for civil rights, marching for R vs. W the first time, Watergate, Monica… oh Lord, and so much more. But today’s times, “they are a’changing.” Where will the hatred and divisive feelings end? For the first time, my usual optimistic attitude is hanging by a thread.
I am intrigued by philosophy. The ancient great thinkers who can demonstrate new insights. I am fascinated by the thought of “Everyman.” It is empowering to believe we all are more alike than different. I believe in honesty above all. I dream of those around me being true to who they are at their core. I am drawn to the name Truman because it can literally be translated to “True Man.” We should strive for this quality while always wanting to stretch and grow. After mulling these thoughts while hiding in bed, I immediately remembered a film I have watched dozens of times since it first debuted in 1998. This inventive, imaginative movie made me think long after the closing crawling credits. I wanted more. This is the unifying strength of the worldwide television series showcased within the film THE TRUMAN SHOW.
It took Peter Weir, the director, sixteen rough screen drafts to get THE TRUMAN SHOW on its trajectory path. Even then, the writer, Andrew Nichol, produced a dozen more. Weir did not shirk his responsibility to create a unique, thought-provoking story. He held a tight rein over his 300 townspeople while still allowing the entire ensemble to settle into a rhythm of total disbelief and deceit. Weir also left room for improvising. The scenes drawn in front of the bathroom mirror were hilarious ad-lib lines.
The town of Seaside, Florida was a stunning backdrop for the outdoor shots. It felt authentic because it was, right down to the bridge across the water. The costume designer made some pretty bold choices with Truman’s Bermuda shorts. Ugly… ugly… ugly. I believe this was the point since we undoubtedly have some clothing we only wear inside the safety of our homes.
Jim Carrey as Truman proved himself to be a silly comic and a talented dramatic actor. His facial expressions, whether they were joyful, desperate, sad, or frightened, held us tightly within each frame. He could have gone so far over the top but gave audiences a stellar performance. He was mesmerizing and believable. His PTSD seconds and yearnings for the love of his life create a new meaning to heart-wrenching storytelling. The shock and awe on his face when his sailboat hit the backdrop was palatable. I wanted to take him in my arms and let him know he would be okay and the best was yet to come.
Ed Harris as Christof was brilliant. I felt like I was watching and listening to God making his case before a jury. He was terrific and entertaining every time. A fun fact is that Carrey and Harris never met during the filming. Ok…that’s acting. The incredible ensemble included Laura Linney, Holland Taylor, Peter Krause, Natascha McElhone, and Noah Emmerich.
Each of the characters’ names and streets of the town had hidden meanings and references. Linney’s character was named Meryl Garland after Hollywood’s greatest stars. Truman’s last name, Burbank, was an homage to the studio. The streets were named Lancaster Square and Barrymore Road for obvious reasons. Weir also wrote a back story for all the characters and encouraged the extras to do the same. (Acting class 101 all over again.)
THE TRUMAN SHOW is used still today to foster discussions in subjects such as philosophy and ethics classes in schools from coast to coast. It brings to the forefront how far any of us can go. Do we have to stay within the lines and norms? When is it considered too much? The TV show within the movie was something never before seen, and that instantly made it a moral classic. Christof wanted to take it all the way as he saw himself as a “Christ-like” personality. It took over 10,909 episodes for those around him to say…no. Enough is enough. Let’s hope our world doesn’t have to go through that many rewrites.
THE TRUMAN SHOW is available on Peacock.
