Ecalevol.ComThursday, May 21, 2009
In The Valley of Elah
I just took a few moments to watch this critically acclaimed anti-war film. I’d honestly forgotten that it was filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I’ve spent so much time there, that I instantly recognized some of the landmarks from the film (The Frontier Restaurant on Central (Route 66), for instance). Tommy Lee Jones and Charlize Theron both star in incredible roles and take their acting to new heights.
This is not a political discussion, but as much as I thoroughly enjoyed the film, I’m disheartened by the overall message. It’s rough to watch a character’s beliefs and faith torn apart. It’s tougher when I “connect” with that character in several different ways.
I found this movie to be the exact opposite, “the anti-film,” if you will, of Taking Chance. I understand the need to show all sides of an issue. War and conflict is an awfully powerful issue to address in a film, as is death. Why must directors use the opportunity to emphasize those that are torn apart by war and tragedy? Why not acknowledge the loss with honor, understanding, grief, but with an open and hopeful spirit?