The Long Day Closes

This autobiographical 1992 film from British director Terence Davies is set in mid-1950s Liverpool, covering a year or so in the life of Bud (Leigh McCormack), a gentle, quiet schoolboy who is the youngest member of a loving family, looked over by an affectionate widowed mother (Marjorie Yates). Rather than tell a traditional story, Davies offers snapshots of moments in Bud's life at home, at school (where he's increasingly teased and bullied), at holiday celebrations (with neighbors singing and joking), and at the cinema, where the camera lingers on his captivated expression as we hear the soundtracks from movies such as Meet Me in St. Louis and Great Expectations. Although they clearly have little money, it's a happy time of life for Bud and his family, and Davies presents this through the warm glow of memory, full of evocative textures and rich moods, using the lighting techniques of old-master paintings to suggest the changing weather and shifting light from day to night, while also incorporating lush romantic songs from the era to set the tone. While it won't appeal to all viewers, this beautiful and accomplished film will reward patient viewers. Presented in a handsomely remastered Blu-ray/DVD Combo set, extras include audio commentary by Davies and cinematographer Michael Coulter, a 1992 episode of The South Bank Show featuring Davies, interviews, and a booklet with an essay by critic Michael Koresky. Highly recommended. (S. Axmaker)