If you are a reader, then you know the visceral connection between you and a book. You envision the characters in your mind. They remain that way. With this in mind, you understand my quandary about going to see Part I of Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand’s monumental work that has not only withstood the test of time over the last 54 years but also connects so thoroughly to the current political and economic happenings in America.
Last week, the movie came to area theaters and I was very apprehensive about going. I wanted my husband to become more familiar with Any Rand’s work, but I hesitated to see major film stars as the main characters. Much to my delight, I didn’t know those playing the parts and that made the movie thoroughly enjoyable.
This film is important. The only downside is that all three parts will not release before the 2012 election. Another sorry point is that those who need to see it most won’t be in the theaters. They will be waiting for Uncle Sam to help them out in one way or another.
Now is not the time to ignore the wisdom Ayn Rand gives her readers. Her message is as pertinent and applicable today as it was in 1957 when the book made its debut in American literature.
I wonder if she could have known that her work would be so instrumental in lives yet unborn. Take the time to see this movie. If you are a reader and have read the book, you will be surprised at how the producers decided to break it up in portions. The “hook” to Part II is unique and Ayn Rand fans will understand why it was done.
For those who don’t want to pick up the large book and devour its pages, the film offers a great alternative. Like any work, the movie leaves a lot out — of necessity. To do it justice, it would run for days, not hours.
There aren’t a lot of movies today that offer Americans a wake-up call. This one does. It just might change your life — or at least your level of participation in life at one level or another. Go and see it. Then go home and think about it.