First time actress Mary Badham does a wonderful job of portraying Scout, the young tomboy trapped in a time where she is expected to act like a lady. Her innocence, modesty, and blunt comments and actions portray Lee’s character perfectly. Her naïve out look on people and the way life works makes us as viewers question our own beliefs and actions. She helps both the characters in the film and the audience see that children are often taken for granted, and can have very simple, honest outlooks on life. Gregory Peck (How the West was One, Moby Dick) also does a marvelous job of playing Atticus Finch, the widower attorney forced to take Tom Robinson’s case. Peck portrays Atticus perfectly, depectitng an honest man with a truly pure heart, trying his hardest to raise his children to become open-minded, non-judgemental adults. Peck’s performance gained him a well-deserved Academy Award for Best Actor, and turned out to be the perfect highlight to a very long and successful career. Robert Duvall, who played Boo Radley in the film, appeared for only a couple minutes, but made a lasting impression on the audience. His ability to portray a frightened yet friendly young man with out saying a single word was astonishing.
Director Robert Mulligan did a spectacular job of bringing Harper Lee’s tale of innocence and injustice to life. Every single important aspect of the book, whether it be characterization, setting, or dialogue, was included in the film. With the option of filming the movie in colour, Mulligan still chose to film it in black in white. It brought out the film’s authentic 1930’s feeling, and more importantly brought out one of the film’s most evident contrasts: “black and white.” It also scored Russell Harlan an Academy Award nomination for Best Black and White Cinematography. The film’s score, (which also got an Academy Award nomination) was a substantially original score by Elmer Bernstein. It was evocative, eerie, and moving, and brought the audiences’ senses to a new level. The film’s setting was incredibly impressive, bringing to life the finest details from Lee’s novel, right down to the old courthouse. The team of art and set director also won an Academy Award for their incredible work. Finally, the film’s screenplay, written by Horton Foote, was a masterpiece. It included all of the important situations and details from the novel, right down to direct quotes. Any changes from the novel were made cleverly and flawlessly. Foote also won an Academy Award for his contribution to the film.
With its 8 Oscar nominations and 3 Oscar wins, it’s no wonder To Kill A Mockingbird is considered a classic. The film clearly depicts the racial injustices and moral tolerances that took place in Southern Alabama the 1930’s. With its solid performances and practically perfect screenplay, To Kill A Mockingbird holds a place in the hearts of all its viewers, and will no doubt be enjoyed for generations to come.
Movie Review: To Kill A Mockingbird
Rachael Harvey
December 2nd 2001
Mrs. Villeneuve
ENG 3U
