Father Juniper witnessed the death of five people who were using an ancient bridge in South America in the 18th century. It left him wondering why a loving God would allow this to happen (as well as why He'd allow a movie like "The Bridge of San Luis Rey"). So, he spends the film investigating their lives--to see if it's all some part of God's divine plan.
While the plot is unique, it's amazing how dull the film is. In fact, repeatedly I found my mind straying as I tried to watch. At first I thought maybe it was me--I was tired. But as I tried watching the next day, it just seemed interminably dull. Much of it was the plot and much of it was the insipid direction as you never really SEE anything happening. In addition, I noticed that the film, at times, looked kind of cheap--such as the poorly painted background when the film began. Easy to skip.
By the way, if you do watch, look for Stymie Beard (from "Our Gang") in a bit part as a young servant in a wig.
While the plot is unique, it's amazing how dull the film is. In fact, repeatedly I found my mind straying as I tried to watch. At first I thought maybe it was me--I was tired. But as I tried watching the next day, it just seemed interminably dull. Much of it was the plot and much of it was the insipid direction as you never really SEE anything happening. In addition, I noticed that the film, at times, looked kind of cheap--such as the poorly painted background when the film began. Easy to skip.
By the way, if you do watch, look for Stymie Beard (from "Our Gang") in a bit part as a young servant in a wig.