Mindwalk – 1990
Posted by Scott on 14 Nov 2008 at 01:31 am | Tagged as: Obscure Films
Philosophical debates among intellectuals are often pedantic and elitist. Listening to brilliant minds spout abstract theories and deconstruct worldwide problems, albeit informative, can become quite tedious. While appropriate material for Charlie Rose or a BBC round-table, putting this sort of cerebral subject matter on film is a tricky process. Movies like Louis Malle’s My Dinner with Andre and Richard Linklater’s Slacker are successful examples of dialogue-heavy projects that carefully tread into the realm of higher thinking without insulting their audiences’ intelligence. Add Mindwalk to that list; a passionate film of ideas written by renowned physicist Fritjof Capra.
Burned-out politician Jack Edwards (Sam Waterston) needs a break from the D.C. grind. A trip to France to visit his poet friend Thomas (John Heard) is the perfect remedy. Once there Jack and Thomas take a drive to the medieval islet of Mont-Saint-Michel to spend the day. What begins as an ordinary touristic excursion takes an interesting turn after meeting Sonia (Liv Ullmann), a disenchanted physicist on a lengthy sabbatical. It doesn’t take long before three disparate minds engage in an intelligent, heated discourse. Socially relevant topics include the mechanization of humans, global warming, voter apathy, the consequences of scientific advancement, and the meaning of life. While differing on many issues all three are respectful of the others opinion. A fascinating walk ensues as each submits their own distinct vision of a planet in turmoil.
Director Bernt Amadeus Capra, brother of Fritjof Capra, creates a meandering story void of plot or device. It unfolds as a filmed stage play composed of several monologues. The camera acts as a casual observer: it’s not meant to distract but rather simply document. Dazzling architecture and gorgeous scenery of Mont-Saint-Michel provide a stark contrast to the depressing cynicism uttered by the characters. The systematic destruction of the environment is a prescient subject for 1990, long before Al Gore’s vocal crusade entered the mainstream. Also deliberated is the abuse of science by world goverments. Instead of using scientific betterment to solve society’s problems bureaucratic institutions often choose to improve military infrastructures. Capra paints a bleak picture of society’s ills, but also offers a glimmer of hope. Jack, Thomas and Sonia do more than just speak to each other, they listen. If humans, particularly those in positions of power, listen to differing viewpoints perhaps the world would be a better place.
Mindwalk features three unique performances from its actors. Sam Waterston portrays frustrated ex presidential candidate Jack Edwards as an idealist who still believes change is possible. Politicians talking about change. Sound familiar? Edwards isn’t angry, he’s lost. John Heard’s struggling poet Thomas checked-out years before, unable to cope with the system. He plays mediator to Jack and Sonia, chiming in with a quip or a quote, but it’s his final act recital that resonates. Rounding out the cast is the iconic Liv Ullmann who carries the film playing Sonia, a perceptive scientist hiding from a world she no longer recognizes. Ullmann’s role is filled with weighty dialogue, but she delivers without missing a beat. Mindwalk won’t be to everyone’s liking. Non-stop talk and confusing concepts can be turnoffs. With that in mind, if you enjoy challenging films it is well worth your time.
A scene from Mindwalk:
