Midweek Mention... Harold and Maude
When pseudocidal proto-emo Harold meets his opposite, manic pixie Grandma Maude, at a funeral, both will enrich the others’ lives in Hal Ashby's 1971 black comedy metaphor about the circle of life. Harold is obsessed by death, Maude by life and a blink and you'll miss it shot in the final third of the movie adds extra depth and context to its message. Bud Cort's muted, subdued and often monotone Harold is the yin to Ruth Gordon's spirited and energetic yang, and the movies pitch black sense of humour seems surprisingly modern for something which is over 50 years old. Rounded out with a strong Yusuf Islam / Cat Stevens soundtrack and some splendid cinematography (particularly the shots of Golden Gate National Cemetery) , it seems surprising that this was so widely trashed upon release and whilst some people will be unable to get past the unavoidably bizarre nature of HAROLD AND MAUDE's romantic relationship, the fact that it continues to find an audience is proof of the films enduring appeal. A listener wanted us to check it out and we are awfully glad they did. Thanks Rachel!
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Until next time, we remain...
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