by Daniel White
You couldn't ask for a better feel good movie than 1963's Lilies of the Field, starring Sidney Poitier. Directed by Ralph Nelson (who has a nice supporting role as the owner of a construction firm), the film tells the simple tale of drifter Homer Smith (Poitier), who gets corralled into building a chapel by an imposing Catholic nun (the terrific Lilia Skala).
Shot on location in Tuscon, Arizona, the film looks beautiful (people who resist movies because they are in B&W should watch Lilies of the Field, it just may change their mind), and has a lovely, infectious score by a young Jerry Goldsmith. But what it really has going for it are two exceptional, effective performances by Poitier and Skala (both were nominated for Academy Awards, with Poitier winning). Two stubborn, prideful individuals who clash, confront, then come together to build the chapel, the film could be perceived as a love story between the two.
In the last scene, Homer drives away, for the last time, and we see a look of sadness and loss on Mother Maria's face, which is moving. Her faith brought him to her but he is a temporary gift from God, and when his work is finished, it's time for the restless Homer to move on.
Faith, community, tolerance, and love, Lilies of the Field is beyond criticism (at least it was for me). If you need a movie to uplift and put a smile on your face, this film is the perfect concoction.
With Stanley Adams and Dan Frazer, Lilies of the Field is currently available on YouTube.
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