Tell Me a Riddle

Tell Me a Riddle is a riveting drama film directed by Lee Grant, originally released in 1980. The movie, which runs for 96 minutes, features celebrated actors such as Melvyn Douglas, Lila Kedrova, and Brooke Adams, who delve into the complexity of human relationships, turning the film into a compendium of profound emotions, struggles, and love.

Melvyn Douglas, renowned for his immense acting prowess, gives an incredible performance as David, a hard-working man, who, now retired, is looking forward to living a peaceful life with his wife, Eva. Eva, skillfully portrayed by Lila Kedrova, is a profoundly intelligent woman with a fierce independence that refuses to be diminished by age. Together, they create a realistic portrayal of a couple bound by years of shared experiences, respect and a love that has stood the test of time.

The plot thickens as Eva, who spent her life caring for their children and pursuing social causes, now confronts an opportunity to reevaluate her life and choices after David decides to sell their home. The couple embarks on a journey that will lead them through a trail of remembered joys, pains, sacrifices, and secrets. The journey becomes a catalyst that forces them to face their past, present, and future.

Brooke Adams, demonstrating her acting versatility, plays their daughter Jeannie, bringing a fresh dynamic angle to their family dynamics. Jeannie plays a critical role in the storyline, and her character adds a unique layer of depth to the narrative, further exploring the ripple effects of parental decisions and actions on children's lives.

The movie delves into several profound themes, including the notion of identity, the impact of lifelong relationships, the resilience of love, the inevitability of change, and the beauty of reconciliation. It’s a detailed portrayal of an elderly couple’s exploration of their shared past, and their quest for personal fulfillment beyond societal norms and expectations.

Tell Me a Riddle’s dialogue is a complex blend of sensitive topics giving it a strong emotional depth. The actors handle their lines with care, allowing the viewers to immerse themselves in the characters' experiences. Douglas shows phenomenal prowess in portraying his character, making his struggles palpable and real. Kedrova's performance as Eva is deeply touching, demonstrating an exceptional balance of fragility and steely resolution.

The film’s cinematography draws viewers in with its honest and heartfelt representation of the characters' world. Every scene, every angle seems to tell its own narrative, adding a layer of depth to the storyline. The settings, whether it's the family home or the places the couple visited during their journey, are chosen with meticulous care contributing to the tone and mood of the film.

The musical score by George Burt also deserves to be mentioned. Burt's thoughtful composition plays a vital role in amplifying the emotional resonance of the film's pivotal moments. The music ebbs and flows with the narrative, underlining the characters' emotions and making their experiences all the more poignant for the viewers.

One of Tell Me a Riddle’s significant strengths lies in the director's ability to craft a narrative that resonates beyond the screen. Lee Grant, the acclaimed actress turned director, showcases her storytelling aptitude by weaving together the movie's various elements into a cohesive, emotionally-charged piece of cinema. Grant’s direction coupled with exceptional performances by the cast make this movie a genuine exploration of love, life, and personal growth.

In conclusion, Tell Me a Riddle is a masterful cinematic depiction of an elderly couple's journey through life—their joys, sorrows, victories, and losses. It's a movie deeply rooted in human experiences and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This masterful exploration of life’s complexities makes Tell Me a Riddle a heartfelt, poignant movie that stays with the viewer long after the credits roll.