In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen embark on the visually iconoclastic journey through Terrence Malick's 1978 masterpiece, "Days of Heaven." Starring a young Richard Gere and marking Malick’s 2nd feature film, the audience is taken into the lives of itinerant farm workers in early 20th century America, exploring themes of love, ambition, and moral ambiguity against the backdrop of breathtaking sunset cinematography. With the ethereal glow of golden hour lighting, cinematographer Nestor Almendros crafts an unforgettable visual experience that elevates the biblically-inspired narrative of desire and conflict. Laura and Stephen dive deep into the film's tense character dynamics, including the love triangle between Bill, Abby, and The Farmer, while also reflecting on the broader implications of their actions. Join them as they dissect the film's philosophical undertones and its poignant commentary on humanity, all while celebrating the cinematographic artistry that makes "Days of Heaven" a 20th-century classic.

00:00 Introduction to "Days of Heaven"

01:30 Overview of the film's setting and historical context

04:00 The beauty of the cinematography and natural light

08:00 Character dynamics: Bill, Abby, and the farmer

12:00 The significance of Linda's narration

15:30 Themes of ambition and moral ambiguity

19:00 The Edenic quality of the farm and its allusions to the Bible

22:30 The role of jealousy and deception in the love triangle

26:00 The impact of external events on the characters

30:00 Reflections on the film's philosophical themes

34:00 Conclusion and final thoughts on "Days of Heaven"

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Ep 294: Exploring “Days of Heaven” (1978) Illusions and Desire in Agrarian America

Midday Movies