Thanks to Glenn Close writing the screenplay for this book [which I read AFTER having seen the film], Albert Nobbs has become an all-time favorite movie for me. Closes depiction of Albert [a very sad individual] resonated far more deeply within my heart than any of the characters in the book. I suspect this has to do with the compassion that I felt for Albert Nobbs. Having seen the film several times BEFORE reading the book, I had been completely drawn into Alberts life in ways I did not experience, reading the book. The more subtle nuances of the tragedy of Albert were missing for me in the book. For example, I did not dislike/detest Joe as I did in the film; I found him wholly unscrupulous and thoroughly loathed his attitude toward the more complex Albert as I watched the film. I was also far more forgiving of the Helen character in the film than in the book. I also thoroughly loathed Mrs. Baker, the owner of the Hotel Morrison; I found her self-absorption and greed despicable. Insofar as Hubert Page, I grieved Huberts loss of the beloved Cathleen, as though it was all happening in real time instead of being only reel time. Huberts compassion for Helen and little Joe touched me deeply. I became so mesmerized by the film, it was as if Id been living the reality of Albert and company, as opposed to someone merely viewing a film. I suspect this is the true gift of a very talented filmmaker. I never thought of Albert as anyone other than Albert, a tragic soul for whom I felt a haunting compassion -- unlike anything I have ever before experienced with the cinema. I am overjoyed to read Roger Eberts review.
Posted on: Sat, 28 Jun 2014 20:29:58 +0000
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