Martin's Day

source: Martin's Day

Martin's Day

This unusual road movie violently throws two outsiders out of their comfort zones and makes them reassess their lives. Richard Harris, an aging escaped convict, snatches 14year-old Justin Henry from the street in defence when the police arrive on the scene. What ensues is an examination of the relationship that develops when these two outsiders reach out to each other. Is it Stockholm Syndrome, or is it emblematic of something deeper within them? The Canadian scenery is breathtaking, and the depiction of the journey the two take emphasises the vast scale of the country they are traversing. The central cast are excellent, but watch out also for the supporting performances, including an uncredited early appearance by Tess Harper. Blink and you'll miss her.

Another legend of the film is gone, and he will be both missed and, of course, remembered. Perhaps a wonderful change of pace way of thinking of Richard Harris is to watch him in this beautiful film. He is as charming in this film as he must have been in real life, and in a similar way, too. Cunning, clever and conniving, he takes both the 12 year old Martin and the viewer on a roller coaster ride of an adventure.

I missed this film in 1984 but did see "A Perfect World: when it came out in the 1990's. If "Martin's Day" had followed the Costner movie I would have thought it less believable and compelling. The fact that it predated the Costner film gave it a big boost in my assessment of the film. Richard Harris was his usual excellent self; and all of the other members of the cast were excellent. I did find the ending, however, very weak. In the case of "A Perfect World" this was rectified. Anyone who sees one of these two films would be well advised to see the other.

I don't believe this was an acting challenge for Richard Harris. This was an uncomplicated plot, yet interesting. It is a good movie to watch when you don't want to do a lot of thinking, just want to be told a simple story. The Canadian scenery was breathtaking. The beautiful Fall shots alone made the picture worth seeing.