T.R. Baskin

T.R. Baskin, directed by Herbert Ross, is a romantic drama film released in 1971. The movie features an impressive cast that includes Candice Bergen, Peter Boyle, and James Caan who deliver compelling performances in their respective roles.

The film follows the narrative of the titular character T.R. Baskin (Candice Bergen), an elegant yet naive young woman from a small Midwestern town who moves to the bustling metropolis of Chicago in pursuit of a more compelling and fascinating life. Baskin's character brings an air of innocence and charm to the stark contrast of city life which is a far cry from the simplistic life she led in her rustic town. Candice Bergen, who beautifully portrays T.R. Baskin, breathes life into a character that many viewers could relate to - a dreamer who steps into the city wrapped in illusions only to encounter harsh realities.

One night, she meets a somewhat lonely, melancholy, and overworked insurance salesman named Jack Mitchell, played effectively by Peter Boyle. Mitchell communicates with Baskin over the phone initially in a mix-up and then buffoons his way later into her life. Baskin misconstrues his friendly approach for romance, and thus begins the erratic yet engaging narrative of the movie.

The character of Jack Mitchell played by Boyle is portrayed as an unlikely hero. Despite his regular day job, he demonstrates the complexities of human character. He manages to keep viewers hooked with his unpredictable behavior that somewhere down the line dwells into his deep-seated fears and loneliness. His interactions with Baskin are imperfect yet realistic, taking viewers on an emotional rollercoaster ride.

James Caan, on the other hand, plays the role of Larry Moore. He is a long-lost friend of Jack Mitchell who is currently living the life of an accomplished music producer enthusiastically in New York. Caan's performance brings the nuanced character to life, demonstrating the wide gulf between the worlds of these two characters and the world T.R. Baskin stepped into.

One impressive aspect of the movie T.R. Baskin is the juxtaposition of the urban Chicago landscape with the character of T.R. Baskin. The cinematography and the film script beautifully capture the contrasts of the dreamy rural life and stark realities of urban living in the 70s. Chicago is projected not only as a city of skyscrapers and bright lights but also a city of loneliness, alienation, and unexpected friendship.

With its intriguing characters and compelling narrative, T.R. Baskin maintains a steady grip on the viewer's minds. It confronts the complexities of human connection and the labyrinth of personal and professional life in a big city. The essence of the film relies on emotions which are deep, ambiguous, and unexpected - just as life itself.

Director Herbert Ross successfully weaves an interesting narrative that is a blend of romance and drama. The film unravels layers of human emotions, keeping the audience hooked to the very end. The screenplay, crisp editing, and palliative background score play instrumental roles in carrying the narrative along, creating moments filled with tension, surprise, and sentimentality.

Candice Bergen’s character T.R. Baskin leaves a lasting impression with her outstanding performance. She seamlessly showcases the innocence, naivety, and determination of her character, making her a relatable figure for many. The film kinetically oscillates between hope, disillusionment, romance and, a quest for self-discovery through her character.

T.R. Baskin is not just a film but an experience of an era long gone, and yet its themes – loneliness, the pursuit of dreams, and the complexities of human relationships – remain as relevant today as they were then. While it is set firmly in its times, the story and its characters have a timeless appeal making it a must-watch for any lover of classic drama. This movie is an emotional journey that reflects the sense of adventure, personal reflection, and valued lessons associated with life’s unexpected twists and turns.