Going My Way
Originally published on social media on October 4th, 2022
I had a meeting with my professor today to go over my different ideas for a historiography this semester. She wanted to know what inspired my ideas and I listed films. She caught onto a theme with me , and gave me suggestions on how I can use my love of film for this project and others.
Initially, something in her tone unintentionally made me feel awkward, stupid, and dorky, but then I realized that my love of film history is a gift and strength. With that, I present to you a film that reminds me of why I love film so much.
This film became a personal tradition about 3 years ago. There’s something about watching black and white films during the autumn season that is magical. Plus, this film has a hint of Christmas and I’m not above enjoying a hint of it in October.
Here’s why I love this film:
- Bing Crosby. Need I say more? He has something so loving and kind in his demeanor, and his voice is both comforting and incredible.
- This film has a variety of musical stylings. There’s a bit of 40’s pop, crooner music, choral, and opera. Each performance is impactful and speaks to the soul.
- Leo McCarey is an incredible director who found the divine balance between authenticity and magic. You can thank him for this film, “The Bells of St. Mary’s”, “Love Affair”, “An Affair to Remember”, “Duck Soup”, and “Good Sam”.
- The story is filled with hope and speaks to the idea of seeing the best in all people no matter how hard it can be. I love how personal Father O’Malley gets in helping people and how each experience is unique because each person is unique and needs something different.
This film was originally released in the middle of WW2 and ironically in the month of May. Thinking about the original audience brings a tear to my eye as I imagine how the joy people must of felt as they got to escape their sorrows for 2 magical hours. In those 2 hours, I imagine they were reminded of the delightful parts of humanity and felt inspired to be more generous with their resources and hearts. That’s the power of a good film. A good film can be like medicine to our souls and remind us we are not alone. I’m proud to be a film nerd.