The Sun Also Rises (1957): An Unfulfilled Love Story in Post-War Europe
Adapting literature for the screen has always posed significant challenges, and “The Sun Also Rises” (1957) proves this. Based on Ernest Hemingway’s celebrated novel, this adaptation navigates the intricate themes of love, loss, and the disillusionment of the post-war generation. Despite the author’s and screenwriter Peter Viertel’s dissatisfaction, the film has its merits and provides a visually compelling take on the narrative.
Set in the vibrant backdrop of 1920s Paris and Pamplona, the film follows Jake Barnes (Tyrone Power), a war veteran grappling with impotence and existential disillusionment. His unfulfilled love for Lady Brett Ashley (Ava Gardner), a woman drifting through relationships seeking what she cannot have, forms the crux of the narrative. Alongside them are Robert Cohn (Mel Ferrer), a writer caught in his self-absorbed world, and Mike Campbell (Errol Flynn), Brett’s fiancé, whose charm masks his self-destructive tendencies.
Henry King’s direction adeptly uses CinemaScope to capture the bustling fiesta scenes and the intimate moments of personal revelations. The bullfighting sequences in Pamplona, shot in Mexico, juxtapose human confrontation with nature’s raw power, reflecting Hemingway’s fascination with the Corrida.
The casting, often criticized for the actors’ ages, surprisingly fits the narrative’s theme of war-torn lives. Tyrone Power and Errol Flynn’s weary appearances resonate with their characters’ bruised souls. Flynn’s portrayal of Mike Campbell stands out, delivering a poignant depiction of a man consumed by regret and self-pity.
Despite some deviations from the novel, the film holds its ground. It captures the essence of Hemingway’s tale, reflecting the despair and yearning of a lost generation. The Blu-ray edition enhances this classic, offering insightful supplements on the making and Hemingway adaptations.
In conclusion, while “The Sun Also Rises” (1957) may not entirely satisfy purists, it remains a commendable adaptation. It respects the source material while delivering a cinematic experience that encapsulates the novel’s spirit of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of fulfillment amidst life’s imperfections.
