October 05, 2006

"SOLARIS" FALLS ON HARD TIMES ------- by Steve Nadis

"Solaris," the 1972 sci-fi classic, directed by Andrei Tarkovsky and based on a novel by Stanislaw Lem, has clearly seen better days. Earlier this week, I saw a copy of the video sitting near a subway entrance in Central Square, where some of the most destitute, most down-and-out people of Cambridge parade by, day and night. I pass by that spot on the way to my daughter's elementary school, and one day later and the day after that, the video was still there in the exact same spot, apparently untouched.

In some ways, the movie is controversial. Although it still has a cult following in some quarters, other viewers find it unbearably tedious--"like watching paint fade," as one friend described it to me. Love it or hate it, people used to get passionate about the film. But now, it seems, the prevailing response to Solaris is one of indifference. Is that something to be concerned about? It depends on how you feel about watching paint fade.

Posted by Snake at 09:18:57 | Permanent Link | Comments (5) |
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1 - Can't say that I've seen it. I'll put it on my list of movies to rent. If I can find it and watch it, I'll let you know about the paint-drying thing. Having painted the interiors of two houses, I've seen LOTS of paint dry. (Comment this)

Written by: Oldroses at 2006/10/05 - 18:03:38
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2 - Paint drying happens quick; paint fading takes time. But in any case, please let me know what you think, OR. (Comment this)

Written by: Snake at 2006/10/05 - 22:59:43
3 - It's deplorable that a videotape of the 1972 version of the movie "Solaris" was left on the sidewalk in Cambridge. Are there no receptacles for such trash? This is one of the only films I've ever walked out on in my life.

-dja
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Written by: Dennis Ahern at 2006/10/12 - 08:51:49
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4 - Thanks Dennis, many people share your indignation, though I did stay for the whole 165 minutes. If it's any consolation, the video is no longer lying there. (Comment this)

Written by: Snake at 2006/10/12 - 09:11:08
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5 - Hey Dennis, when I click on your link, a funny thing happens--I get me. What's up with that? Are you me, or am I just confused? (Comment this)

Written by: Snake at 2006/10/12 - 09:13:10
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