I viewed a terrific independent film Stockholm, Pennsylvania written and directed by Nicole Beckwith at the Sundance Film Festival in Ogden, Utah. To say that this film is incredible is a vast understatement. Few time in my life have a been so mesmerized in the words and actions of the characters as my thoughts spun left and right, up and down, and round and round. As Beckwith explained to us after the viewing, she provided snippets and ideas, enough to intrigue and fascinate but left it to the viewer to fill in the blanks, making the film a very personal experience as the study of relationships and entanglements of lives weaves in and out to create that which we call LIFE.
One point Ms Beckwith shared with the audience after the film referred to Intentions and Actions, and whether we judge them good or bad. In her film there is no "bad guy" and no "good guy". Each character is replete with the flaws of humans. A strength here might transcend into a weakness there and vice versa. She leads the audience through the role and behaviors of each cast member with the guide "His/Her intentions were good; His/Her actions were bad." As we applied this individually and with friends seated nearby, the truth of her statement grabbed us.
Think of all of the people in the world who have the best of intentions. They possess hearts of genuine goodness but when their personal intentions transform to outward actions, the good is often usurped by negative results. For example, I love chocolate ice cream and "think" you love it too. I stock up on gallons to find that you are allergic to chocolate, lactose intolerant, trying to diet, and afraid of the cold. My intentions were good but the actions? Very bad. Why didn't I talk to you first?
That was a trivial example to get thinking started. What about the divorced father who quickly remarries for many reasons that include being lonely and thinking his children must be, too. Through the upheaval of separation the children are crushed and barely able to hold bandaged hearts together when who enters? A new "mom" figure. The intentions are good; the actions, at this point in time, bad, and they will certainly cause pain and anguish.
Check this movie out as soon as possible. It is amazing and will leave your head pondering thoughts of magnificence. Intentions and actions - how do your mesh?
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