AVALON

 "AVALON" --- (1990) --- 

MY THOUGHTS:
This is a truly beautiful film, but that is what Barry Levinson does. He writes beautiful stories, and then films them in a way that only enhances storytelling and are a delight for your eyes! It is one of his films that pays homage to Baltimore. It also shows us a slice of American life, and its immigrant population, during the 1940's; and, was based on his family and childhood. It is about "The American Dream," extended family, traditions and the lovely relationships built between grandparents and children. It also has a fantastic cast who give wonderful performances! It is my favorite movie of his (although "Diner" comes a close 2nd). If you have seen Avalon, you know what I mean. If you haven't, take the time to check it out. You will NOT be disappointed!

SYNOPSIS:
"This drama, largely based on the family history of director Barry Levinson, follows the immigrant Krichinsky clan as they settle in Baltimore during the early 20th century. While Sam Krichinsky establishes roots in the city and finds a wife, his ambitious son, Jules, who changes his last name to Kaye, tries to live the American Dream by opening an appliance store, revealing cultural and generational gaps."

STARRING:
Armin Mueller-Stahl, Joan Plowright, Aidan Quinn, Elijah Wood, Elizabeth Perkins, Lou Jacobi, Kevin Pollak and Eve Gordon

SCREENPLAY:
Barry Levinson

DIRECTOR:
Barry Levinson

AWARDS:
It was nominated for a total of twenty-five awards, four (4) of them being Academy Awards, but (in spite of critical acclaim) it only won one (1); "Best Screenplay – Written Directly for the Screen" (Barry Levinson) from the Writer's Guild of America.