/Spring Forward (1999).jpg)
/Spring-Forward.jpg)
Spring Forward
- Director: Tom Gilroy
- Writer: Tom Gilroy
- Producer: Kevin Chinoy; Bonnie Finnegan
CGiii Comment
To date, Gilroy's first and last feature film - why?
The writing is mature and compelling, the direction slick and professional, the acting: beyond reproach.
This is a character driven story that keeps your interest from beginning to end - a simple journey through a year in the lives of two men - disparate by age and circumstance.
This is the pinnacle of independent movie making - a small and, sadly, ignored little masterpiece that will both warm and break your heart.
Talent like this is rare - too rare, Mr Gilroy please make another film - you have shown that a low-budget can become a powerhouse in the right hands.
Your hands are magical.
Trailer...
The(ir) Blurb...
As the seasons change in a Connecticut town, two men of different age and backgrounds who work together outdoors for the local park system, share thoughts and feelings that gradually deepen into a relationship approaching father and son. Paul is just out of prison for armed robbery, assigned to work with Murph, a middle-aged vet whose grown son Bobby is dying. Paul is trying to control his temper and build a spiritual side based on reading. Murph is a down-to-earth Sancho Panza to Paul's more ethereal ideas. And Murphy seems to need forgiveness for mistakes as a dad. As Murphy's retirement approaches and winter sets in, the men talk and love blossoms.
Cast & Characters
Ned Beatty as Murph;
Liev Schreiber as Paul;
Campbell Scott as Fredrickson;
Ian Hart as Fran;
Peri Gilpin as Georgia;
Bill Raymond as Don Regan;
Catherine Kellner as Dawn;
Hallee Hirsh as Hope;
Justin Laboy as Bobby;
Kristin Laboy as Kristin;
David Roland Frank as Boy with snowblower;
Sturgis Adams