Becket's Return

Listening to KCRW a few days ago, I discovered this week the Nuart Theatre in West LA would be presenting the return of the 1964 classic, Becket. While I still remember my mother raving about it decades ago, I'd never seen it myself. So I was keen to experience it on the big screen, if at all possible. A little online research uncovered an LA Times review by Kenneth Turan, in which he spoke glowingly of the classic performances of Peter O'Toole as Henry II and Richard Burton as Thomas Becket. My son, beginning an acting career of his own, would do well to witness two of cinema's greatest actors at their best, I thought. But how to make it happen, with only weeknight showings remaining in the short run?

I don't believe in coincidences, so it really didn't surprise me to discover that wednesday evening was "family game night" - a special monthly reprieve from homework designed by my son's school to foster family interaction. Without the usual burden of homework, we had the perfect opportunity to share a bit of cinematic artistry! The family picked me up early at work and we wisked our way up the 405 in uncharacteristically brisk fashion to find ourselves a bit early for the 5:00pm show. I was pleased to see a small crowd of like-minded movie-goers gradually materialize as showtime approached - pleased to think others had carved time out of their own mid-week routine to catch this fleeting treasure. By the time the lights faded, there was a respectable crowd.

If, like me, you have a long history with the Nuart Theatre, you may remember a rather shabby place. I'm pleased to report that the result of last year's renovation is reason enough to return. The lobby is spruced up and the restrooms are a definite improvement. But the appointments in the theatre, itself, are the main event. The seats are plush, recline a bit and set miles apart. Imagine not having to hold your breath and squirm sideways to let others pass in front of you! I wish the typical megaplex would be half as generous.

Becket did not disappoint. I understand the restoration process, made difficult by the loss of original negatives, was costly and time-consuming. However, the result was worth every penny. The visuals were excellent; one could hardly tell this film was 40+ years old. Burton brings his characteristic brooding strength of character to the title role and I was reminded on several occasions that he truly is the master of soliloquy. His confession, shortly after becoming archbishop, of his faultering faith was so genuine and anguished, I found myself unexpectedly moved to tears.

But it is O'Toole who really commands centerstage in this epic tale. His Henry II is simultaneously vulgar, intelligent, childish, vulnerable and powerful. I agree with Kenneth Turan that one cannot help but like and dislike him at the same time. O'Toole integrates it all so expertly and believably that I empathized with his anguish, even as he plotted dark deeds against - as he himself confesses - his only true friend.

While I join with those who believe Becket was slighted a number of deserving Oscars, I definitely understand why it won for screen adaptation. There is nothing more essential to the construction of great performance than great dialog - and Edward Anhalt delivered magnificently in his adaptation of Jean Anouilh's acclaimed play. The banter between Burton and O'Toole is clever and fast-paced - a delight to experience, in any hands, and glorious when delivered by these two masters. I could listen to these two many times before growing tired of it. As the lights came back up, I could hear my mother's words of praise drifting back from many years ago. Now I know what she meant - and she was right.

Following the movie, my family and I wandered into Westwood and dined at an old favorite - a japanese restaurant named Asuka on Westwood Blvd. Everything was first-class (as usual), from the miso soup, to the sushi assortment and plentiful tempura. All in all, it was an outstanding evening of culture and fine dining with my most favorite company.

Once again, I count my many blessings and opportunities!