Lilies of the Field (1963)

 Ralph Nelson's "Lilies of the Field"


The only reason the 1963 film "Lilies of the Field" registers in the zeitgeist of cinema is due to its lead actor, Sidney Poitier, becoming the very first black actor to win for a leading role at the Academy Awards. Beyond this outstanding achievement, the film itself has little effect in the public consciousness. After watching the film, it did little to move the needle in terms of my own personal recognition. However, its admirable themes and solid lead performance made it notable at the very least.

Poitier stars as a drifting handyman named Homer, who stops at a remote Arizona farm seeking water for his car. A group of nuns from East Germany who occupy the farm believe that Homer has been sent by God to build them a chapel. Homer begrudgingly agrees to the task and ends up uniting the entire community.

Despite my admiration for the progressive themes, the film is too simplistic to contain much depth. Its drama lies in the push and pull between service and self-preservation, which is commendable. However, the film doesn't wish to rock the boat with these ideas. It self-contains itself for the sake of marketability, looking to generate progressive ideals in more conversative audiences. Understandably, this makes it far more effective in its messaging. However, it makes it less effective in its emotional investment. 


 

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