TORYSAYS

My Single Man

Fords foray in to the controversial world of the movies. Most of us have seen it, some liked it, some didn’t. I however, was spellbound, captured, captivated and transported to a world I wanted to live. 99 minutes of magic. Here’s why…

A Single Man is based (loosely) on the 1964 novel by Christopher Isherwood. The movie is a quiet meander through a moment in time. The main character, George Falconer, is played beautifully by Colin Firth with delicate English hesitance. George is left bereft by the death of Jim, his young, inspirational lover of 16 years who dies in car accident. The sadness is overwhelming, tangible even, and Firths’ portrayal of loss is utterly, utterly stunning. I was completely hooked before the plot had even begun to unfold, and immediately captivated by the sheer artistry of the images. The acute play of grainy colour that reflected Georges’ emotional synergy, the apparent stillness, the quietness and the nuances. I was spellbound for 99 minutes. This film is an achingly beautiful foray in to the magical elegance of 1960’s LA. Written during a period of time where angst was tangible and change imminent. The set was perfection. The house, the chairs, the lights, the suits, the bars, cigarettes, even the vending machines. All overwhelmingly gorgeous. A Single man is beautiful story of love and perception and hope and utter loss. I disagree vehemently that this movie is simply just a ‘too’ beautiful advert for Tom Ford as an Art Director, or that it’s just a collection of beautiful stills. Clearly Ford lucked out with great casting and an outstanding performance by Firth. But In all honesty… not sure it matters. I’ll most certainly be queuing for the next Ford Movie, not to test theses theories though, just for another 99 minutes of unadulterated pleasure.