A Safe Place

A Safe Place from 1971 is an experimental drama that dives deep into the realms of psychological tension and juxtaposition of reality versus fantasy. Directed by Henry Jaglom, this film, featuring some of the most notable actors of the era like Tuesday Weld, Orson Welles, and Jack Nicholson is a master stroke of metaphorical narrative layered with enigmatic dream sequences and a profound exploration of the human mind.

The film tells the story of Susan, portrayed by Tuesday Weld, who is caught in her world, which is a confusing mosaic of reality and fantasy, past and future memories, and torrents of emotions. Susan's life drifts between two vastly different men, charming and free-spirited troublemaker Mitch (played by Jack Nicholson) and the steady, down-to-earth corporate businessman Fred (played by Phil Proctor). These two men represent quite different aspects of life and love, serving as the bridge between her bold dreams and harsh realities.

Starting as a love triangle, the film elegantly weaves a storyline vastly different from conventional romantic dramas. The film moves on to be a philosophical exploration of time, space, and existence. Director Henry Jaglom, widely acknowledged for his breakthrough approach in film-making, addresses expressions of human emotions, which are rarely seen in commercial cinema, through polar opposite characters Mitch and Fred.

A notable character is an enigmatic street magician, the role memorably played by Orson Welles, who serves as a fascinating counterpart to the central characters. This magician has an air of mystery about him, as he fabricates his magical world within the park, flooring the onlookers, especially children, with his captivating tricks, tales, and wisdom that serves as a metaphor for greater life lessons.

Though he appears sporadically, often found performing tricks in a park or sharing his thoughts in a café, Welles' magician becomes a pivotal part of the storyline as he provides a unique insight, uncovering hidden layers of Susan's psyche. This philosopher-cum-magician guides, challenges, and baffles Susan as he throws riddles and stories her way, thus pushing Susan towards introspection.

What makes A Safe Place exceptional is its abstract narrative, experimental structure, and distinctive editing style. Rather than following a linear narrative, the film flows in a stream of consciousness style, moving forth and back through time, often blurring the lines between dream, memory, and reality. This approach creates an intimate, frenzied, and fluid experience that simulates the turmoil and confusion experienced by the central character, Susan.

The performances in the film are candid, intricate, and deeply engaging. Tuesday Weld, known for her subtle yet powerful expression of complex emotions, shines as Susan, bringing alive the character's vulnerability, obsessiveness, and internal battle with seeming ease. Both Jack Nicholson and Phil Proctor deliver commendable performances, complementing Tuesday Weld's portrayal and contributing to the intricate narrative. However, it's Orson Welles who steals the show with his cryptic, charismatic, and mesmerizing persona.

The film's visual language, supported by the brilliant cinematography and set design, contributes to its surreal mood. A sort of theatrical minimalism can be seen in how the locations are used, helping in establishing character and context very effectively. Adding to the film's unique aesthetic is its music. The soundscape moves along with the narrative, with a strong shift from jazz to classical and surreal scores, enhancing the emotional undercurrents of the film.

A Safe Place is a reflective and sometimes perplexing film that transports the viewers into the mind of Susan, a woman struggling with her inner demons and the complexities of life. It's an avant-garde drama that leaves an indelible mark on viewers who appreciate films that challenge standard narrative norms and delve into the depths of human experience. Be prepared for a cinematic experience that will question your perceptions of reality and might even make you question your understanding of yourself and the world around you.