The story unfolds as a series of flashbacks told by a man named Max, a passionate trumpet player, when he visited an English pawn shop to sell his trumpet. The actor is a unique man who never set foot upon dry land. It begins in the year 1900, when an engine room worker finds an abandoned baby on board. He names the child Danny Boodman T.D. Lemon 1900; 1900 for short, and decides to adopt him as his own. 1900 is a true orphan. He knows nothing about his parents or his past. The ship is the only thing he knows. At a young age, 1900 became a piano prodigy. His music has been described as “that's never been heard before”. As word of his talent spreads, he soon attracts the attention of record producers, publicists, and even Jelly Roll Morton, the father of Jazz, who wants to challenge the prodigy to a piano duel. However, despite being on the verge of fame and fortune, 1900 lives a lonely existence, having never set foot off the ship throughout his life. Max is his only friend. Through the character of 1900, Tornatore (the director) explores the immigrant experience, the fear of change within all of us, and how some of us find the courage to overcome such fears. This is a story told in the Tornatore tradition that explores the simple emotions of day-to-day experience. It’s not about inspiring, living in a positive way and facing fears with courage, it shows more direct concern on change and fears themselves. While all people are struggling to deal with living and life, they conquer as much fears and pains as possible just because they have to, it’s the real emotion and fears from 1900 that touched me. He’s afraid of change, and then he chooses to stay, throughout his life. When we enjoy the music made by the amazing hands, think of his lonely life, isn’t it the pure life that touches us. The courage to avoid change and fears is more precious than to face it.
No comments:
Post a Comment