The Living Arts
A Look at Love
by Sydney Murray
I am my beloved’s, and his desire is toward me.
– Song of Songs, Songs of Solomon
Song of Songs is a documentary about love. Its elements are vast and varied, much like that most tempermental of human emotions. It is a film that I would like to give to everyone I know. There is much to be taken away from this film; the people portrayed offer their most heartfelt thoughts on love and relationships.
Inspired by filmmaker Chris Brickler’s grandparents, who recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary, Song of Songs is a film about love and hope. Love breaks us wide-open and often brings us face to face with the things we appreciate and dislike about ourselves. The film discusses if marriage is what it used to be. In the “old days,” it seemed as if you stayed put no matter how bad the marriage was. Today, many people leave when the going gets rough. Brickler interviewed over 150 people around the world from all walks of life, trying to understand the essence of what makes relationships successful. Inspired by his grandparents, who have been happily married for over six decades, he ponders, “Is that possible in our generation?” The senior Brickler’s (Art and Eva) inspiring love story is woven throughout Song of Songs. Their story, sweet and honest, tells of the trials and happiness that comes from being together for such a long time.
“We’re not so interested in creating closure, but rather creating an opening,” said Brickler of the documentary. The movie’s insights and haunting musical score create a memorable exposé of love and life. Two people that I really appreciated listening to were Rabbi Leder and Ryan Redman. Their honesty touched me and gave me the inspiration to ask more of myself in love.
Song of Songs gently underscores the point that love is, for all of us, an enduring mystery that reveals more of itself every day, both in our interactions with others and also in our solitary moments of reflection. Ultimately, the film inspires us to believe in the power of love to transform and heal. According to Rabbi Leder, “Not all of us have the capacity for love and commitment. It’s a miracle. When we go back to the actual Song of Songs, who is to say that human love is not a reflection of the love of God for human beings? The greatest gift given to us is the capacity for human love, and I’m not sure any of us would want to live without it.”
If you want an inspired Valentine’s Day gift, this film would be it.
For more information, visit the Spiritual Cinema Circle at www.spiritualcinemacircle.com or call
800.556.0129. The Circle is featuring this film during February, 2008.