#73 Dear Rocky - Hector and the Search for Happiness

Read Rocky's review here!


Dear Rocky,

Thank you so much for indulging me with this film that was recommended to me by my ex-husband - he knows me well.

I loved this film. Everything about it. Firstly, I identified with Hector, not because I'm a psychiatrist, but as a psychologist I have at times found myself opposite my clients, feeling involved in their lives at times when I haven't felt so involved in my own. So I understood Hector's research, especially since I think I've done my own versions of that over the past few years.

The second part I loved was Hector's notebook. He writes and draws and it's simply divine. I would buy that book!

I know you struggled with it in the beginning and I have to agree that it was pretty far-fetched, especially in Africa. But... and it's a big BUT... Hector's note book saved all of those moments for me.

When Hector finds himself in China with the immediate temptation and excitement, at first I felt disappointed that he could so quickly move on, which detracted from his relationship with Rosamund Pike even though it appeared bland and mundane. But I found the fact the young woman was a prostitute organised by the sceptical businessman from the plane very poignant and a real learning curve for Hector.

Of course I agree with you about the profoundness of the scene on the aeroplane with the dying woman and her line "listening is loving" made me again consider what it is I do everyday and reminded me not to minimise the importance of that in other people's lives.

I know you loved Toni Collette's character, as did I, and I think we can all relate to the daydreaming about the one that got away - what if...? I also think this storyline was handled so beautifully and played wonderfully by Toni Collette who seemed so, well, happy.

But of course, my favourite storyline was that of the Buddhist monks and the prayer flags - happiness is all of the colours - which of course tied in with one of your favourite parts of the movie, and mine too. They are all there.

So maybe I'm a bit more taken with this one than you Rock, but I'm a sucker for so many of the things they've included in this film.

I loved your comparison to the Wizard of Oz by the way. But how true is it that "there's no place like home."

I give this film a 7.5/10.

What next Rock?

Jodie