I enjoyed watching Mr Bean's Holiday recently. I wasn't sure at first, but it turned into a lovely road movie.
Simple characters and random synchronicity. Outlandish situations and awkward responses. Casual mistakes and an inherent urge to protect. Oysters and beaches and cigarette lighters. Just like life.
All seen through a lens within a lens. Our own eyes see the eyes of Bean, from our own TV's frame through to the frame of a camcorder via so many pipes and tubes. Experiencing the trip of another helps us to reflect on our daunting journey, from one day to the next.
I watched the film over three evenings. Each evening seemed to correspond to a distinct third of the film - from setup, to journey, to culmination. Here, in my house, I am constantly reminded of both the younger and older generations that bookend me. I'm well on my way in the journey stage. That strange middle part of the film where things have momentum and transition.
The road movie is a reminder that our own lives are filled with timid humour, particle moments of joy, fleeting sadness, and constant novelty.
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