It is a masterpiece!
Its genres are a mixed bag - placing it under drama, horror, thriller and mystery. It is these entire plus more. Its tag is that of 'Terror by good intentions.' For it to be shown on a horror channel is a travesty of justice.
The Living and the Dead details a period in time of the life of Donald Brocklebank (Roger Lloyd Pack) - a man of aristocratic background living in fear of bankruptcy in a rundown country manor. His wife, Nancy (Kate Fahy), requires constant care due to a terminal illness.
His son James (Leo Bill) is schizophrenic and also requires constant care. James is overprotected by his family leading to an exacerbation of symptoms (and I know this to be true as some with mental illness overprotected by families experience serious personality damage and now reside in our home) but is intent on proving himself as 'the man of the house' during his fathers absence.
The Living and the Dead presents a vision of the nightmare of mental illness. I implore all those who have an interest in mental ill-health to watch this disturbing jewel. You may see a preview here - but it gives you nothing! If you read the reviews - ignore the Neanderthals speaking of 'retards' and seeking blood and gore.
Images courtesy of Quiet Earth I recommend you 'click' on Quiet Earth as it gives an excellent review.
Anna :o]
5 comments:
Might order it from Love Film (tho' horror isn't my usual genre). Thanks, Anna!
Hi Frances.
It is not a horror film - that was the whole point of the post. It was misplaced.
It is a frightenly honest film regarding mental ill-health - especially the devasting effects of schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia varies in its intensity and some folk are able to tolerate it, live with it and lead a productive life. Others are devastated by it and suffer extreme personality damage.
The film focussed on the latter (and the sufferers over-protection) and the resulting horror of James's attempt to be perceived as 'normal'.
It should not have been on a 'horror channel' but on mainstream TV for all to view and hopefully gain a little understanding.
Anna :o]
Sorry, Anna. My mistake. My cousin was a schizophrenic, and took his own life in his twenties. It's a dreadful condition, isn't it. Will definitley order the film.
Dave. I wonder too! I like the gormless idiot in me - it allows me to do stupid things that are sometimes fun and sometimes just stupid!
Frances. No problem my friend! I have added a recommendation that (you) click 'Quiet Earth' as it gives a rave review.
So sorry to hear about your cousin - schizophrenie can indeed be very damaging.
Anna :o]
Who says James has Schizophrenia? Rumley on his site says he is 'mentally challenged' and in the film he comes across more as a kid with learning difficulties/ADHD than a schizophrenic character.
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