If you think this is one of those dull and oh-so-PC movies about autistic people, think again! Nothing could be further from the reality. 'Snow Cake', much to my surprise and delight, turned out to be an exhilarating, sexy, poignant, movie that was full of love, redemption, and healing. And no, don't worry, the sex wasn't with the autistic character! I had heard about this movie the other day on BBC Radio 4, when Sigourney Weaver was interviewed on 'Women's Hour', I think it was. Whatever the radio show--- even that interview made it sound a bit 'well meaning' and earnest. And that makes for one dull-ass movie! Therefore, while the interview raised my desire from zero to maybe 35 percent, I still was hesitant to go and see it.
I wish I had proper words to describe what a masterpiece this is. And it was a masterpiece, perhaps, because it was NOT obviously 'arty' or 'important'. It was about people. Real people. Wounded people. Alan Rickman delivered what is perhaps the best role of his career. Sigourney Weaver's performance as the lady with autism was so seamless that if I didn't know better, I'd think she WAS autistic. And the young woman who played the daughter, Emily Hamspshire I think her name is--- she was a refreshing dose of realism. We should watch for her as a rising new star. And Carrie-Anne Moss was fantastic as the sex interest.
This movie is simple and straightforward. Yet, nothing was predictable, either. I just loved it. This is exactly the kind of movie treasure that movie lovers usually can only dream of finding. And to think, I only saw it 'accidentally', because I had already seen everything else at the cinema.
I am SO glad I went! The movie, I promise, is NOT about autism, or how we treat sufferers, or any other boring PC diatribe. It is about ME. And YOU. It's about all of us, and our hearts, and the inspiration and healing and good luck that we all yearn for, and we all deserve. Now, after this movie, the picture of what is possible is bigger, clearer, and stronger for me. Now THAT is a gift to me! Thank you, cast and makers of 'Snow Cake'!
