The worst part of holding the memories is not the pain. It's the loneliness of it. Memories need to be shared.
from The Giver by Lois Lowry
~Water Closet and Hallways...Make what you can of it~
☺
Who is that woman stuffing her face with popcorn? My! It does look bad. In my defense, Sis left me holding the bag and the Sierra Mists and anything else I could hang onto.
So we went to see The Giver. It is from the book of the same title by Lois Lowry who so happens to be a part-time resident in these parts. The movie premiered last week in her hometown. My aunt sent me a blurb:
*Friday, August 15th, join us as we welcome Lois Lowry (author of "The Giver") following our 3:30 showing, as she speaks about the writing of the book, her involvement in its transformation to film and to take questions from readers. Don’t miss your chance to hear an amazing award winning author speak about her great work. This event is sponsored by the Bridgton Public Library, Naples Public Library, and Bridgton Books.
(THIS SHOWING IS SOLD OUT.)
The story is a dystopian one about a young boy who becomes the receiver of all memory, both good and bad, from the time before his perfect world banned such knowledge.
Dystopia
noun
1.
a society characterized by human misery, squalor, oppression, disease and/or overcrowding.
It was interesting to see the changes between the book and the movie. I believe that Lowry has said that she has no qualms about the changes as the book is introspective and not suited for Hollywood without some jazzing.
While this book is not a Christian book nor written from that perspective, there is much to ponder. You know, the big topics: free will, rebellion, pain, suffering, peace. Yup. Plenty to think about, even for adults. The book was written for children in elementary school...somewhere around age ten, but don't let that stop you. Some of my favorite books were written for children — Tuck Everlasting, Bridge to Terebithia, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, A Wrinkle in Time and ...
I did find this nifty article on Dystopian Themes in Christian Fiction. My favorite is the last paragraph.
If you're intrigued at all, this is a quick trailer that's pretty good.
Lowry writes an interesting blog that you might find fun to read. I'll let you Google it.
And so that's how we happened to be four days late for the premier. I believe that The Giver is opening in theaters on August 24. It's been awhile since I last went to a movie...War Horse (speaking of children's books made into movies) and prior to that The King's Speech. No, I am not a regular movie goer. Are you?
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We go to 1-2 movies a year. I used to belong to Netflix, but don't anymore.
ReplyDeleteSuch a lovely theater! I have read several Lois Lowry books over the years. She has a different writing style that really makes you think sometimes. Most of my movie going these days is with my kids for something they are wanting to see.... most recently was Hercules & Divergent with my son. He was happy which made the movies a bit more enjoyable. I'll have to check out The Giver ... I'll probably read it first. =)
ReplyDeleteHa Vee I saw that picture of you with the popcorn and as I was staring at it I swear I saw the Phantom of the Opera sneak up behind you and reach in for a handful ;) ~ must be my theatre macabre mind set ! lol
ReplyDeleteThe theater looks beautiful, Vee, and another fun outing for you and your sister! I've seen more movies lately, with girlfriends and grands. There's just something about seeing movies on the big screen vs seeing them on TV. I loved the popcorn eating pic of you!!
ReplyDeleteI was intrigued about that movie especially when my granddaughter Lindsey told me she had read the book and loved it. Yes, I have always been a big movie goer. There is just something about the big screen that lures me in. We always hit the afternoon matinees and try to go to the theaters where the movie is on it's way out too to save more. And then there's always senior discounts! I LOVE LOVE popcorn and have not been totally successful in resisting it this summer since starting my diet. I have nipped myself back though to sharing a small with hubby, and NO butter, lol. I need to avoid it altogether though I know...baby steps. Enjoy your day Vee!
ReplyDeleteHi Vee, I had not heard of this book/movie. I probably have only been to the movies 5 times in my life. Those times were dates during college days. John's narcolepsy and restless legs make movie going out of the question and I have trouble sitting still that long. We are so boring!
ReplyDeleteWishing you a good day. We had a nice rain yesterday!
The last movie I went to see was when Stephanie was here. Last year.
ReplyDeleteI will have to see this one, even if it is when it comes out on DVD. Oh, the last DVD movie I watched? Frozen. Loved it.
We rarely go to the movies, I think the last movie we went to see was Heaven is for Real. You've intrigued me with this one Vee. The lady in the back of the theater looks vaguely familiar. Nice old theater. Thanks for the review. That was one busy day you had. ~ Abby
ReplyDeleteI read The Giver year ago, when it won the Newbery Medal. (I spent 30 years as an elementary school librarian,) I'm re-reading it right now, in hopes of seeing the movie soon. As you said, it's a very thought-provoking book. And I agree that some of the best books are those written for children! I'd still much rather read a good children's book than most "grown-up" books.
ReplyDeleteYour list of favourite children's fiction mirrors mine. I didn't know The Giver was being made into a movie. I think I'll skip it as I hate my imaginary worlds being shattered by Hollywood.
ReplyDeleteI can't remember the last movie I went to. We go once, maybe twice a year. I would rather curl up on my own couch with my own popcorn. Such a hermit I am.
This sounds like both an interesting book and movie. No, we're definitely not regular movie goers. Netflix wins out here, but we often hold onto movies for 3 weeks before finding time/making time to watch them.
ReplyDeleteThe theater looks like a wonderful place.
We go to movies very infrequently. We're ~ahem~ frugal and prefer to watch via Netflix. It is fun to watch on the big screen now and then though. And when you can combine your movie experience with a favorite book and a field trip of sorts and time with your sister...well, why not?! :D
ReplyDeleteI have never read The Giver as I have never been a fan of fantasy literature. That said, I LOVE The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Maybe I should give The Giver a chance?
The Giver was required reading in one of my classes when I was getting my masters degree. The day we were to discuss the book was so interesting: the class realized we had come to different conclusions about what the ending meant. It was quite a discussion. The author was wise to realize it is nearly impossible to make a movie about a book that is mostly about what a character is thinking. The James Harriot books presented the same issue: the best part if his books were what James was THINKING about what was happening vs what was actually happening.
ReplyDeleteIt is hard to haul myself out to see a movie in a theater when I know we can see it at home in a few weeks. Occasionally only seeing a movie on a theater size screen will really be the best choice. Life of Pi (another book to movie with an ending that was hotly debated!) was a movie that really should be seen on the biggest screen possible.
That vintage theater would be so fun, especially if it has dress up showings events of old 1940s movies. We have an old theater here with an organ that shows silent movies with an organist playing along. I still haven't gotten to go see a movie there yet!
Love me some popcorn! I don't go to the movie often to be honest. Once every now and then my daughters and I will go. In all honestly, if there is a movie and the book I would much rather read the book. The movie never seems to be as good as the book. WOW, that theatre is beautiful too. Glad you and your sis got to have some fun! Hugs and blessings, Cindy
ReplyDeleteFun theater! Those seats look real comfy. The last time I was in a theater was...oye, I can't remember, so no I'm not a regular at the theater. I think I tried to see the huge on special effects movies in the theater like Lord of the Rings. Other kinds of movies I just wait to see at home. Looks like you and your sis have good times together...nice.
ReplyDeleteNo kidding, I think those were the last two movies I've seen also! Anyway, this sounds interesting. I've not read the book. I hope Hollywood will learn someday that good family movies do sell. They don't have to make cheap trash. And not that you asked, but I think my favorite Madeline L'Engle book was 'A Swiftly Tilting Planet.' Okay, now I'm off to follow that link. Thanks. :-)
ReplyDeleteOkay, I watched the trailer and am going to see if I can find the book on Kindle.
ReplyDeleteMy son and I will go to see the movie....We certainly enjoyed the book, years ago.
ReplyDeleteI like going to a movie, but don't go often as there is always something I'd be interested in.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the review on The Giver, I went in search of the book and ordered it from the library. Will see if the movie is around too.
Hey, when it comes to popcorn face stuffing Olympics, I'm a champion.
Your movie theater is very pretty, Vee! This sounds like an interesting story/movie. I will watch the trailer.I We have not been to a movie since we moved to Colorado! There never seems to be enough time to go. Maybe when my husband retires in October we will go to a matinee or two. We do enjoy renting from RedBox now and then to watch ona weekend night--when we are not babysitting--lol!
ReplyDeleteNo movie theater here..yours is very pretty. We usually wait until it comes on Demand. Blessings
ReplyDeleteWe don't go very often. I saw a trailer for this movie online and thought it looked good. I may have to check it out. Tim and I could go on a date. we are wild and crazy aren't we?
ReplyDeleteDeanna
That sounds like fun...popcorn makes the movie! We rarely go to the theater but we watch movies at home, with buttered popcorn. Enjoy your day! You've had some nice adventures lately!
ReplyDeleteYour theater looks charming and your latest adventure sounds like a lot of fun. Thanks for taking us along.
ReplyDeleteMy sister-in-law has an extensive library of young adult and children's books. I must ask her if she has this one so that I can borrow it.
The movie looks interesting. I couldn't even tell you the last movie I saw at the theater. Might be time to change that.
You have piqued my curiosity...I plan to check it out. And yes, I agree that memories need to be shared.
ReplyDeleteWe go to movies on occasion (maybe two or three a year). Right now I am making plans to see Helen Mirren in the100 Foot Journey.
At the risk of sounding like a tightwad and a curmudgeonly stick in the mud, I am always dragging my feet at the mention of going to a movie. First of all, it's a commitment of time that I begrudge, unless it's terrific, like "Maleficent" was. Second of all, I binge on a gigantic box of Milk Duds and consume the theater sized box in its entirety, while also downing a goodly portion of Mister's popcorn. Thirdly, I must dress warmly and with layers to withstand the chilly temperature year round, no matter the season outdoors. And finally, the cost of even a matinee has skyrocketed!
ReplyDeleteHave a nice day. ;))
I rarely go to movies - once a year on a big movie-year. I watch them on DVD at home - in my pj's. This sounds like one I'll have to look for.
ReplyDeleteWe are big movie-watchers here, but mostly at home. Unless I really, really want to see something NOW (rare), we wait to see it on Netflix. My favorites are movies from the 30s, 40s, and 50s, so don't ever have to wait for those! I've never read The Giver. Or Fahrenheit 451, two classics.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes Vee, don't let them put a chip in you (I read the article!).
No...I am not a big movie goer. Never went as a child because it was forbidden. My hubby loves them. We go sometimes for date night, he goes to one movie, I go to another. Cracks our kids up!
ReplyDeleteI hope you and your sister could share some memories on your day together--and now you have made a new one.
ReplyDeleteNow you've got me interested, I'll have to look this up!
ReplyDeleteThe only movies that I have attended in years are The Lord of the Rings' and now 'The Hobbits'.
That picture needs to be a close-up, I can barely see you Vee.
Hi Vee...no I am not a regulare movie goer but...I am a regualr movie watcher. Nightly on my Kindle or on streaming from Amazon. I love films and I love to read. I am in the midst of reading Angela's Ashes..and I've seen the movie. The book is...historically correct. Sadly correct as far as the conditions of Ireland back when it was written.
ReplyDeleteI read constantly..every break I take...a wonderful pastime.. Are the books you mention on Netflix do you suppose...I must look.
:) Mona
No, this is a current movie and, unless you have a theater that is worth a visit as this one is, you can certainly wait for Netflix. Better yet, read the book. It's short and has all those points of interest mentioned. There's a reason why high school kids use quotes from the book in their year book pages.
DeleteWe rent movies...buy a few...go to the movies every now and then and only if daughter says to go. The last one we went to, I forgot to ask her and loving L. DeCaprio so much, we went to see The Wolf of Wall Street. OMYGOSH....horrible...HORRIBLE...such trash and we walked out on it. I haven't liked him since. Daughter almost died when I told her...
ReplyDeleteI just made a comment about this movie in my last comment. That's mainly because I read all the missing posts before even beginning to comment and they all glommed into one in my head. Well, oops.
ReplyDeleteI agree about some of the best books being written for children. My favorite book of all time is The Long Winter. (I feel the need to say that I hate it that I can't underline or use italics in a comment. It makes me look stupid, IMO.)
We rarely go to the movies but I'll keep an eye out for this one, and the book.
ReplyDeleteI'll have to check out the trailer, I've not seen this movie, tho we usually just rent movies and rarely go to the theater. I love your photos!
ReplyDeleteI think I'll read the book.
ReplyDeleteNo, we hardly ever to to the movies. I don't even remember the last time.
I'm so glad I stopped by and read this particular post. I ordered The Giver a couple of years ago and then when it came I didn't feel in the mood for that sort of story. Just this week my 11-yr-old granddaughter mentioned that she had read it, and I began to consider it again. I'm glad that you posted the quote, which gives me an entrance into the story, one that relates to things I am already thinking about. I don't know if I'll want to see the movie afterward, tho!
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