Both the young and the old, whether they are foolish or wise, are going to be trapped by death. All beings move towards death.
They are overcome by death. They go to the other world. And then not even a father can save his son, or a family their relatives.
- Sutta Nipāta 578-579
I loved the book by Alice Sebold so I was hoping the movie would do it justice. Considering that the book is told through the thoughts of a murdered child, the movie did a credible job of translating it to film.
The story is about a murdered fourteen year old girl, Susie Salmon, who is unable to let go of her attachment to her family, her budding romance, and her desire for revenge. This prevents her from passing on into Heaven. Saoirse Ronan is perfect as Susie, both beautiful and innocent, bursting with life and potential.
It is also a suspense/thriller in that the murderer targets Susie’s sister, Lindsey, for his next victim. Lindsey and her father (well played by Marc Wahlberg) are both driver to solve the mystery of Susie’s disappearance. The violence is not shown, and there is no mention of rape, in order to make the movie more palatable for family viewing.
Susan Sarandon skilfully portrays the bigger than life grandmother who is placed in the unfamiliar position of primary caretaker as the rest of the family disintegrates.
This movie will stay with you long after you leave the theatre. Bring a lot of tissues.
