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The Light Between Oceans



I've got a close to infinite list of places to visit and an even longer list of books I'd like to read. One book that has been on the list for years is M.L. Stedman's The Light Between Oceans.  Even though it was published in 2012, to my regret, I still haven't gotten to it. I was delighted when my friends at Disney offered me the opportunity to see it in a preview on Monday. The one caveat was that I had to wait to write about it until it opened today.

Though I took a course on film criticism in college I am no film critic. But Buttercupland is not the New York Times. I highly respect the minds of my friends, but I realized soon after I began blogging and writing about books and, from time to time, about movies that this blog wouldn't take the place of the New York Times or the New Yorker. What I can do and what I do is answer the question, "Is this book/movie something I would enjoy seeing or reading? Is this movie worth ten dollars -- senior citizen cost in New York City -- and two hours (or so) of my time?

 My answer about The Light Between Oceans is a definite yes. There was one moment when I tried to see my watch in the dark, but that was fleeting. It is a thoughtful romance with some of the best movie scenery ever. It stars Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander and I will be surprised if at least one of them, if not both of them, are not nominated for Academy Awards. I read several reviews before writing about the movie. One of them noted that it reminded that writer of the Bette Davis movies of the 1930's. As someone who has watched "Dark Victory" more times than I can count, that is high praise. There are moments in The Light Between Oceans that are heart wrenching, sad, poignant and sweet. Bring tissues, settle in and enjoy.
 

Since we're discussing literature and movies I'm mentioning the latest post on Coffee Light and Mysteries (Mostly) Noir.   I'm writing about one of my favorite mystery series by C. J. Sansom. The hero is Matthew Shardlake, an attorney during the reign of Henry VIII, and the first book in the series is Dissolution. Mystery fans and Anglophiles, I think you will enjoy this series very much.

I've got relatively modest plans for this weekend, blogging and walking being at the top of the list. I hadn't been paying much attention to the weather, but it looks like New York City is in for some rough weather on Sunday and Monday due to Hurricane Hermine. I've got my flashlights up to date and have a supply of bottled water, too. The miles I hoped to walk may have to be put off for later in the week. I'm praying that Hermine decides it's pleasanter to go out to sea and the East Coast will be spared damage. Florida, Georgia and South Carolina friends, you're in my prayers.

 As ever, thanks for visiting. Take good care and stay safe!

Please note: I was offered the opportunity to see The Light Between Oceans for review purposes. The opinions are all mine.

3 comments

From the Kitchen said...

I read The Light Between Oceans when it first came out and loved it. I'm looking forward to seeing the movie. Can imagine the scenery will be quite beautiful. I've recently enjoyed The Summer Before the War and discussed it in my Muse book group. Hope the storm doesn't do too badly as it moves up the coast. We are enjoying ideal weather.

Best,
Bonnie

Mevely317 said...

Great review, particularly that personal aside ... the impulse to check your watch.
I've been on the fence about this movie, but now I'm leaning towards going to see it.

'Hope that unpleasant hussy, Hermine doesn't go spoiling your weekend!

TARYTERRE said...

I also read the book. Curious if the movie will deviate from the story. Stay safe in the bad weather.