The Belle of Amherst
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Movie Reviews of The Belle of Amherst
Movie Review: "words are my life"
Summary: 5 Stars
Of all the highlights of Julie Harris' illustrious career, "The Belle of Amherst " is her masterpiece. This extraordinary one-woman, two act play by William Luce is exquisitely written and laced with Emily Dickinson's poetry, and is by turns hilarious, as she tells us the small town gossip, to profound and moving, when she speaks of her poetry, her parents, and Dr. Charles Wadsworth, a preacher that captured her heart and soul.
It takes place when Emily, who was born in 1830, is 53 years old, and she invites the viewer into her home, and describes in wonderfully staged vignettes, the many phases of her life. Dickinson was unknown during her lifetime, and was a recluse, but said "I never had to go anywhere to find my paradise".
You will get the recipe for her famous Black Bread, which has as ingredients: 2 lbs. each flour, butter, and sugar, 19 eggs, 5 lbs. raisins, 1 ½ lbs. each currants and citron, ½ pt. each brandy and molasses, 2 nutmegs, 5 tsp. cloves, mace and cinnamon, 2 tsp. soda, and 2 pinches of salt. I have tasted this Black Bread (which is more like a fruit cake), and it's delicious !
Julie Harris is "The First Lady of the American Theater", with a record five Tony Awards with her name on them, as well as an Oscar nomination and 10 Emmy nominations. Ms. Harris has captivated many an audience with her impassioned performances, and her portrayal of Emily Dickinson is as if they shared the same heart; this is a unique theatrical experience, directed by Charles Durbin, and filmed live in a small theater in 1976.
This was a gift from a generous soul, to whom I am very grateful, and this film would be equally treasured by anyone who appreciates poetry and Ms. Harris' magical talent. "The Belle of Amherst" would also be an excellent study tool for literature and women's study groups, as well as drama students.
Total running time is 90 minutes.
Not in Vain
"If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain;
If I can ease one life the aching,
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin
Unto his nest again,
I shall not live in vain".
Movie Review: At last!!
Summary: 5 Stars
I am thrilled to see that this production is finally out on a decently priced DVD. I haven't seen this production, which I think was on PBS many years ago, since it was on TV back then. However, I was fortunate enough to see Miss Harris perform the play in Boston about five years ago. In all my 55 years, of all the plays, concerts, films, etc. that I have ever seen, this was absolutely the finest piece of art I have ever witnessed. Julie Harris is easily the greatest actress of the 20th Century, and this is her greatest role. Absolutely spell-binding, moving beyond words.
Moreover, I agree with the reviewer who says that "The Belle of Amherst" is an outstanding way to present Emily Dickenson to students. This goes for the general public as well. A remarkable play.
Well, what more can I say? I can't wait to see the DVD. Hope it is of good quality.
Movie Review: Theatre magic
Summary: 5 Stars
I saw this years ago, and just recently rediscovered it. I remember watching Julie Harris and wondering who is this woman? I ran right out and rented "A Member of the Wedding," "The Haunting," "East of Eden" and "I Am a Camera." However, it is "The Belle of Amherst" which remains dearest to my heart. Such a loving portrait. A bravura performance which earned the actress her fifth Tony Award for Best Actress, as well as a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Recording. This is a must for poetry lovers and theatre lovers alike.Movie Review: Fine acting, and a nice introduction to a great poet...
Summary: 5 Stars
I saw this on PBS back around 1979, and it started a frustrating love affair with the poet which culminated in my writing a play which is kind of a sequal to this. I corresponded with the playwright, William Luce, and with Richard Sewall, Emily's most respected biographer. I have come to see that Bill Luce's portrait of Dickinson may not be a faithful exhibit of her real personality, but as an introduction to her thoughts it serves a good purpose. Julie Harris is superb, of course. If you want a painless way to get to know the background of Emily's life, this is it.Movie Review: One Of America's Finest Actresses!
Summary: 5 Stars
I saw Miss Harris in London's west end in this play in the late seventies and had the good fortune to meet her. What a gracious lady! I had loved her work ever since I was a young boy and watched her movies on TV with my mother. To now have the DVD is a real treat. Sadly Julie Harris hasn't been too well lately, she had a stroke and has heart problems, so this excellent DVD is a testament of her unique talent.
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