His Movie Review: Snow Falling on Cedars (1999)

Why he watched it: recently read novel on which movie is based

His rating: 4 out of 5 stars

His review: When it comes to movies based on books, I try to read the book first. I’d rather have the film enhance my appreciation of the book, than vice versa. And usually, reading the book is a richer experience overall. What I want from the film is to create a conversation with the book, building on the themes of the novel and adding additional layers to our appreciation of the characters.

For me, the film versions of The English Patient and The Remains of the Day are my touchstones for great films based on great novels. Sitting in the theaters, watching these movies, I was brought back into the films but in a new way.

Having recently read the novel for this movie, I was curious (hopeful?) how it worked, as my memory was that it received lukewarm reviews. I was glad to find I disagreed with those reviews. This is a beautifully filmed movie—definitely deserved its Oscar nomination for cinematography. It really enhanced the setting and mood of the novel. The direction and music builds on the visuals well; however, there were times when the music, as beautiful as it was, created a dichotomy with the scene. For example, the music for the intimate scenes, particularly between Ishmael and Hatsue is filled with choral voices, overplaying rather than supporting the emotions.

One of the strengths of the novel is the broad character depth, and the film does a good job of matching this. It is well-acted, and each character feels in sync with their doppelgangers from the novel. One of the questions I pondered after reading the novel was the motive for Hatsue’s ending her relationship with Ishmael. Was she giving into the pressures of her world? Was she realizing that her love for Ishmael wasn’t complete? After watching the film, I had a better appreciation that Guterson wasn’t simply presenting star-crossed lovers against the backdrop of a momentous historical event. He was playing against that, showing how learning to let go—or not letting go—can define a life. As Nels Gudmundson observes, “It takes a rare thing, a turning point, to free oneself from any obsession. Be it prejudice or hate, or, even love.” I don’t remember this from the book, but in the film it effectively contrasted Ishmael’s inability to let go of Hatsue with the prejudice that tore them apart.

Watching this film made me appreciate the book even more; both are definitely worth your attention.