A few weeks ago International Cinema kept things close to home and played the American film classic To Kill a Mockingbird. Based on the beloved novel by the same title, the movie is one of the rare cases in which a film is nearly as good as the book upon which it is based. The book has sold more than thirty million copies since its publication in 1960, and is considered to be one of the most influential books in American history. Similarly, the American Film Institute has the film at number twenty-five on its Top 100 list of the best American movies. It is a timeless story, with unforgettable characters and a truly American voice.
One thing that I really enjoy about To Kill a Mockingbird is that it centers on a very mature incident (an accused rape of a white woman by a black man in 1930s Alabama), and yet it’s told from the perspective of a six-year-old girl. This fresh perspective adds an innocent air to what could otherwise be a heavy and overly negative story. We see things as Scout sees them, and the young actress who portrays Scout does a masterful job at being timid, yet bold—foolish, yet wise beyond her years. Seeing Scout running and playing and being a typical child reminded me of my six-year-old niece who, like Scout, plays and jokes, yet often says things that show maturity and an innocent understanding beyond what we as adults can even understand. The movie captures perfectly the attitudes and personality of Scout.
Another powerful performance is given by Gregory Peck, who won an Academy Award for his role as Atticus Finch. He truly captured the nature of Atticus as it is portrayed in the novel. He is loving and wise, and he stands up for what is right, regardless of the consequences. All of the scenes that focused on his interactions with Jem and Scout are particularly touching. He exemplifies an outstanding father, and he treats his children with respect and expects them to treat him, as well as everyone else, with the same respect.
Atticus’ most moving scene in the film takes place during the trial. It is clear that the odds are not in his favor, even though he does a spectacular job at defending Tom Robinson and provides obvious evidence of his innocence. In his final speech before the jury he pleads with them to really think about the truth and, brilliantly but less apparently, to consider their underlying prejudices and motives. Even after he has done all that he could do, the jury returns and announces a guilty verdict. As the judge, jury, and crowd slowly leave the courtroom floor, only the members of the “black section” on the balcony and Atticus are left behind. Atticus turns around to leave, and out of respect, everybody on the balcony stands in a silent tribute to the noble man who defended their innocent friend. This was an emotional moment for me—it made me think about my life and whether or not I am willing to defend and fight for justice despite the social ramifications. It also made me appreciate good people who, like Atticus, defend those who really need help and keep fighting even when all odds are against them.
Finally, one aspect of the film that I truly appreciated as a student of American Humanities was the overarching presence of strong American morals. These morals have been displayed in paintings, sculpture, literature and music, and they are certainly present in this film. Atticus represents the ideal American man and father: one who works hard in the service of others and raises his children to do what is right and accept others for who they are. Atticus shows that doing what’s right isn’t always easy or desirable, but it must be done. Undoubtedly no other lawyer would have wanted to defend Tom, but Atticus recognized his duty as a public attorney and went above and beyond expectations in Tom’s defense. If we all worked as tirelessly as Atticus Finch in the pursuit of justice and equality, surely America would be a much different and better place today.
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