Nobody’s Fool’ review:
Paul Newman: From Rebel to Redeemer
Paul Newman, the handsome young man and theater enthusiast, made a name for himself in the ’60s by earning Oscar nominations for his roles as troubled characters in socially conscious dramas. He rebelled against middle-class America while exuding an undeniable coolness. Films like The Hustler, Hud, and Cool Hand Luke showcased his talent and charisma. It was a luxury for him to criticize society while sitting atop the celebrity pyramid.
As Newman grew older, he underwent a significant transformation. While he still possessed a mischievous twinkle in his eye and a youthful rebelliousness, the cruelty of his youth gave way to a sense of resignation and a deep humanity that shone through in his comedic performances. He not only became a better actor but also shifted his focus to America, approaching it with patience and forgiveness.
A Thanksgiving Recommendation: Nobody’s Fool
One of Newman’s finest works during this period was Nobody’s Fool (1994), a film that earned him a late-career Oscar nomination. Directed by Robert Benton, who had previously won three Oscars, the movie was based on a Richard Russo novel and explored the challenges faced by a Rust Belt town in upstate New York. Benton himself received another Oscar nomination for his work on the film.
Nobody’s Fool revolves around Newman’s character, Donald “Sully” Sullivan, a construction freelancer in North Bath, a small town grappling with the effects of deindustrialization. Sully, a lovable rogue, embodies the town’s anger and finds himself at odds with almost everyone around him. He sues his former boss, flirts with his wife, and even steals from him as an act of revenge. Sully’s frustrations extend to his one-legged lawyer and his landlady, Miss Beryl, who represents old-fashioned virtues.
Despite his flaws, Sully is relatable because he dislikes being judged and found lacking. However, his circumstances are far worse than most. The film delves into the humorous quarrels and complications that arise in the lives of the townspeople, including Sully’s relationships with his younger coworker, Rub, and the overbearing local officer, Raymer.
Sully’s personal life is also in shambles. He left his wife and son, who are now facing their own struggles. As Thanksgiving approaches, Sully’s story offers a chance at redemption.
Thanksgiving: A Time for Reflection
Thanksgiving, a quintessentially American holiday centered around family, has evolved beyond its religious origins. To truly understand its essence, one can look to characters like Sully, who seemingly have nothing to be thankful for and are considered losers. This is precisely what Nobody’s Fool explores. Sully is given a second chance to find contentment by becoming a grandfather and a father, allowing him to let go of his suffering. His anger transforms into comedy, and he learns to laugh at himself. Sully’s small triumph becomes a reflection of America’s ability to cope with disappointment.
Newman’s portrayal brings the quaintness and suffering of North Bath to life. What initially appears as a caricature of a New England township gradually transforms into a community where people begrudgingly help one another and come together for important events, even if some have to be temporarily released from jail. The bitterness of lost jobs and dashed hopes is tempered by the strength of familial and friendly bonds tested and proven throughout the story. Sully emerges as more than just a malcontent; he becomes a leader.
This brand of comedy reveals the connection between American and English character traits. Individualism evolves from entrepreneurship to eccentricity, and the contentedness often associated with New England towns replaces the restlessness that defined the Westward expansion. The quiet pride of the English also manifests in these modest individuals, making them worthy of dramatic storytelling. They are not helpless or resigned; their past experiences provide them with the resourcefulness needed to navigate an uncertain future. Ultimately, this is what they have to be thankful for, and the hijinks and troubles of the town only serve to bring them closer together.
So, this Thanksgiving, take the time to discover the charm and reassurance found in the story of Sully and the residents of North Bath. Happy Thanksgiving!
Titus Techera is the executive director of the American Cinema Foundation and a film critic for Law & Liberty, the Acton Institute’s Religion & Liberty, and the Free Press.
What is the significance of the Thanksgiving dinner table scene in which Sully’s son confronts him about his absence in his life? How does Sully’s response reflect his growth as a character?
Sers by society’s standards. But as the film progresses, we see that gratitude can be found in even the most difficult circumstances.
For Sully, Thanksgiving becomes a time to reflect on his choices and the impact they have had on his loved ones. It is a reminder that redemption and forgiveness are always within reach, no matter how deep one’s mistakes may be. Through his interactions with his estranged son, Peter, and his ex-wife, Toby, we witness the power of second chances and the healing that can come from acknowledging past wrongs.
In a powerful scene at the Thanksgiving dinner table, Sully’s son confronts him about his absence in his life. It is a moment of raw honesty and vulnerability, where Sully must confront the consequences of his actions. But instead of retreating or becoming defensive, Sully listens and acknowledges his mistakes. This act of humility and honesty is a testament to his growth as a character and his desire to make amends.
As Thanksgiving traditions continue to evolve, it is important to remember the true essence of the holiday – gratitude, forgiveness, and the opportunity for redemption. Just as Paul Newman’s character, Sully, finds a chance at redemption in “Nobody’s Fool,” we too can find solace and healing in acknowledging our own flaws and seeking forgiveness.
Paul Newman’s transformation from rebel to redeemer serves as a reminder that change is possible for all of us. Through his remarkable performances and his commitment to philanthropy and social causes, Newman demonstrated that it is never too late to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it be through our relationships with loved ones or our contributions to society, we can all strive to follow in his footsteps and become agents of change and redemption.
As we gather around our Thanksgiving tables, let us reflect on the journey of Paul Newman and the character of Sully, and let their stories inspire us to seek redemption and forgiveness in our own lives.
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