The Displaced Person

"The Displaced Person" is a 1977 television movie based on a short story by Flannery O'Connor and was directed by Glenn Jordan. This compelling drama stars Irene Worth, Shirley Stoler and Lane Smith. The story is set in the post-World War II era, against the backdrop of the American South, and addresses challenging themes including culture clashes, racial prejudice, and religious faith. It also deals with the existential discomfort that people feel when they encounter something unfamiliar and challenging in their environment.

Irene Worth, a revered stage actress, aptly portrays the character of Mrs. McIntyre, a widowed farm owner who is the anchor of the story. Mrs. McIntyre - traditional, religious and slightly closed-minded - has her beliefs tested when she hosts a family of displaced persons on her farm. The farm owner's well-ordered, everyday life is dramatically affected by the arrival of these unfamiliar people, inextricably linking their fates and leading to a conflict that intensifies throughout the course of the film.

Shirley Stoler gives a noteworthy performance as Mrs. Connin, a stern, hardened tenant on Mrs. McIntyre's farm. Mrs. Connin's initial skepticism about the refugees changes to a more nuanced understanding as the story unfolds. Her character, though aggressive and unyielding on the surface, reveals a more complicated persona towards the end.

Samuel L. Bright (Lane Smith), a quiet and reserved farmhand, plays a vital role in the narrative. He depicts a common man, torn between his loyalty to Mrs. McIntyre and post-war induced anxiety. Smith brings an impressive depth to his role, resonating the personal dilemmas of an average American in the face of massive change.

The 'displaced persons' are post-World War II European refugees, Mr. Guizac and his family, with their role brilliantly executed by John Houseman and Micheál MacLíammóir. Mr. Guizac, with his unfamiliar customs and manners, represents a way of life that is drastically different and keeps the viewers engrossed.

"The Displaced Person" offers a poignant commentary about human nature and societal dynamics in the face of adversity. It courageously highlights the prejudice, discrimination and hostility the refugees faced. But, alongside such harsh realities, the film does not fail to underscore the possibility of shifts in perspective and transformation in attitudes.

Director Glenn Jordan beautifully presents O'Connor's rich, layered narrative to the screen. The movie, with its detailed characterization and thought-provoking themes, faithfully echoes the depth and complexity of Flannery O'Connor's original story. True to O'Connor's writing style, Jordan also employs elements of irony and symbolism throughout the film, delivering a powerful narrative punch.

In terms of visual excellence, there's a strong authenticity in the production design and costumes that deeply embed the viewers into the era and locale. The farm scenes, interior settings and wardrobes effectively recreate the 1940s Southern United States, while the cinematography contributes significantly to reflecting the overall mood and nuances of the storyline. The film also boasts a melodic spare soundtrack that perfectly accents its poignant moments.

Overall, "The Displaced Person" is a unique television drama that catalyzes the viewer's thought by intelligently unpacking universally significant questions in the context of a specific historical era. It is an engaging cinematic piece that meditates on the unchanging aspects of human nature and societal predispositions when confronted with change. Much more than an adaptation, the film etches these timeless themes into one's memory with its visual and narrative brilliance, bolstered by the performances of an eminent ensemble cast. Whether you're a passionate cinephile or a casual viewer, "The Displaced Person" guarantees an experience worth investing time in.