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glenn-kirk
Reviews
Sound of Freedom (2023)
Fully Informed and Inspired
"The Sound of Freedom" outstripped what I had high hopes of seeing. It's not only crafted well (cinematography, direction, acting, etc.) but the emotional impact based on a true story riveted me to the screen. The audience probably shared my response as well since they were silent and very attentive.
Obviously the subject matter is about children but not for children. My wife was relieved that the nitty gritty was implied but not graphically shown. The filmmakers included some violence necessary to tell the story but toed the line without breaking it.
Last but not least, the impact of this film cannot be described. Our society has been focused on slavery that occurred 150 years ago while, according to the filmmakers, more people are in slavery today than ever before. The business of child slavery alone has increased 5,000% in recent history.
I encourage everyone to see this movie to be fully informed and consider what we can do to eradicate this evil.
If you think you can't stomach the subject matter then please buy tickets for others.
Johnny Tiger (1966)
I visited my father on the set.
I was barely out of my teens when I visited the set to see my father, Glenn Kirkpatrick, who was camera assistant, and his friend, Charlie O'Rork (camera operator). They had shot one of producer John Hugh's earlier films, "Yellowneck".
I was looking for the working title, "The Cry of the Laughing Owls", then remembered it was released as "Johnny Tiger".
I remember being impressed with the power of the very presence of Robert Taylor. I saw a scene where Gereldine Brooks finished a scene with Taylor in bed (both were fully clothed) and was struck by the intimacy of that simple scene.
I though that Tay Garnet started directing the film and was replaced by Paul Wendkos, but that was a long time ago. I distinctly remember Wendkos getting very upset by the frequent clouds that passed in front of the sun, which would change the lighting in the midst of filming. He began exclaiming "FLORIDA!" as if it were spelled with four letters.
I remember the director ordered the set crew to "age" the beautiful little schoolhouse exterior to look broken down. He wanted the actors to develop and internalize the changes that take place in Johnny Tiger and the community.
Probably the most memorable moments off screen were those created by Chad Everett, who, in full Indian make up and attire ate his lunch off a buck knife. Little boys, who were dressed as little Seminole Indians, sat awe-struck at his feet.
Unfortunately I've never seen the final film.