Love, Respect and Honor

I have trouble sleeping. I don't always have a reason - sometimes I am too exhausted to sleep, if that makes any sense at all. Other times I am in pain. Rather than pop a pill, sleeping or pain, I pop in a favorite DVD, one I have watched so many times that I can say the entire script by memory.

I particularly enjoy science fiction, fantasy, thrillers, aka...who done its. But I think my all time favorites of favorites are movies set back in times gone by when men were gentlemen and chivalry was in vogue. A man who honored his word and who respected the woman of his desires. I doubt one finds a mix of such quality and virtue in our modern society; however, I do know of a handful.

Jane Austen has written some significant works along those lines of which I speak. Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Persuasion are three classic favorites, and naturally I happen to own the movies, as well as the books. Mr. Darcy, in his shy, and often not-meaning-to-be somewhat offensive manner are beyond words. What a story!

In fairness there are some movies, written in recent years, of equal value in my considered opinion of what connotes a notable, classic example of true romance. But first, let me explain to you what I mean by "romance" as I see it. It is not the slobbery, panting, over-zealous attempt to seduce, rather a scene as one set back in time where consideration and respect are of the utmost importance in truly falling in love...the honorable way. Hand holding, walking in the woods escorted by parents in the distance, and perhaps a slight kiss upon the hand. Ahhh.

Okay, boy meets girl...they actually talk, as in carry on a conversation. Sometimes the first meeting is not even acceptable much less exceptional. In fact they may actually loathe each other at first sight. In the Movie Letters to Juliet we catch a glimpse of "loathe at first sight" where it eventually turns the other direction after a series of "events" have transpired, often whimsical. The interesting thing is that what drew them together was a letter written to Juliet as in Romeo and Juliet. So now you may get the idea,but then, maybe not!

 

The interesting twist is that the "the boy finds girl" is not the true story being depicted in this drama. It is actually more like Jane Austen's book and the movie Persuasion where love is lost but rediscovered. Watch it and read it! You're never too young to appreciate true love! Of course in the misadventures of the hopelessly love struck young lovers, as Jane Austen puts it in the movie, Becoming Jane,"after a little trouble, they have all they desire"...or something along those lines. 

 

Discover the Twists

 

So there you have it! When you're tired, and you just can't sleep read Jane Austen or watch a favorite movie! But wait!! I have not spoken about the wonderful series of photographs at the top of the page. Talk about twist of fate! This all-time fave is the one that has been rocking me gently and sweetly to rest for the past few days. It stars Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock, The Lake House, and you will just have to discover the secret of this gem of a 5 Star movie for yourself. Bring some tissues, as it has its moments! But as Jane says...."After a little trouble...!" And it isn't even her writing! Great stuff, so enjoy!

Until next time...Meet you at the classics!