Until just before the movie began, Nyel and I were the only ones in the theater Sunday afternoon. We were there to see “The Life of Pi” which had been recommended to us by several friends. Otherwise, we knew little about it – not even that it was based on a book. (We don’t get out much!)
Just before the theater darkened two other couples came in – one pair unknown to us and the other our up-the-street neighbors, Jim and Anne. We didn’t ever catch their eye – they were gone in a flash afterwards while we were still watching the credits – so I sent an email later and asked how they liked the film. The response: “Come to dinner tonight and let’s talk about it.”
Mostly our discussion centered on the “animals.” Anne expressed concern for them. I thought they were mostly “photo-shopped in or something.” This morning I did a little research and found that, though my instincts were right, once again my information-base is dated beyond belief. Except for the opening scenes all the animals were computer generated or “CG” as they say.
I wished I had done my research prior to last night’s dinner so I could have said, “No worries, Anne.” Sometimes it takes a while for things to come full circle here in Oysterville – even our discussions. I’ll email her later…
Tucker, in town to oversee his house-construction project, was at the dinner party, too. He mentioned that there is another (somewhat related, I thought) subject under discussion by a few of our Oysterville neighbors. There seems to be some concern about the propriety of duck hunting along the bay. (Well, it is related in that it has to do with the animal kingdom.)
We talked about the now of duck hunting, the history of duck hunting, the places and people related to duck hunting. Once again, there was no closure to the discussion. And, unlike the “Life of Pi” conversation, there is no way to answer the questions and concerns by a bit of internet research. It will be one of those continuing subjects of concern. As magical as Oysterville may seem sometimes, none of it (or its denizens) is CG. Yet.
Jack and I saw the film last week. I had read the book when it first came out and we had read, together, several reviews. Although we had some ideas about the “how” of the filming, it was easy for both of us to sit back and immerse ourselves in the grandeur of the total experience. We stayed through all the credits (one other person did also) and noted that there was a reference to an animal rights group that oversaw the filming….
Duck hunting — I once shot a bird with a pellet gun (I was about 10-11) and had to watch it breathe its last. I knew then I would never kill for enjoyment, or the “thrill of the hunt.” I know I COULD if I had to eat.
Years ago, a good friend, with whom I shared many values, was telling me how he loved to hunt ducks. In the ensuing discussion, he told me he was a member of Ducks Unlimited. One of their missions is to preserve habitat (continually shrinking) for waterfowl.
I have mixed feelings. I am against abortion but not against anyone having the right to choose it. Likewise hunting (not wanton killing).
Yes, Bill Stone, we humans are complicated creatures. I’m against the death penalty. I support pro choice. Go figure.
Glad to hear you liked the movie, Sydney. I think there are plenty of animal rights groups that oversee the filming of movies involving animals to ever need to worry on that score. I don’t like the killing of animals for killing’s sake and ducks, while very tastey, offer precious little meat. Amy says she wants duck for Christmas. I think that is based on the movie Christmas Story. Maybe we’ll go to Chen’s for Christmas Eve.