I remember when I first got the DVD of the film “Into the Wild” (2008), I couldn’t watch it for more than 15 minutes because I had the impression that it was very slow. When I finally got around to watching it, it was a surreal experience for me. The same is true for THE YELLOW HANDKERCHIEF, and if you watch it for a few minutes, you will quickly realize where the film is going.
The “Yellow Handkerchief” is a love story at its core, and unlike the typical love story involving two teenagers, this one is unique, even though there are two teenagers on screen. The film tells the story of three people who meet by chance and eventually form an unusual bond; their loneliness probably brought them together, to share their lives.
Brett Hanson (William Hurt), who has just been released from prison after serving a 6-year sentence for manslaughter, finds it strange to deal with his past while eager to start a new life. On his way out of a cafe, he meets Martine (Kristen Stewart), a lonely and troubled adolescent who longs to be away from home, and Gordy (Eddie Redmayne), an atypical restless guy who seems to be everywhere looking for love and friendship, even with his attempt to get close to Martine.
As the three embark on a road trip through post-Katrina Louisiana, their relationships forge and change as they all try to confront their pasts and find ways to meet their need for acceptance. While Martine and Gordy form an unlikely friendship, Brett tries to forget his painful past and must decide whether to return to the woman he left behind, his ex-wife May (Maria Bello).
Based on the uncertainty of life, the unpredictable events that have the potential to change the course of life at any time, such as hurricane Katrina, all three protagonists in The Yellow Handkerchief must come to terms with their lives, accepting it as a second chance. Although the plot isn’t particularly compelling, Director Udayan Prasad’s portrayal of this drama and romance is admirable.
Watch the movie trailer for “The Yellow Handkerchief”
Directed by Udayan Prasad
Written by Erin Dignam
Based on the Japanese classic “The Yellow Handkerchief” (1977) by Yoshitaka Asama & Yoji Yamada
Cast: William Hurt, Maria Bello, Kristen Stewart, Eddie Redmayne
Cinematography: Chris Menges
Release dates: January 18, 2008 (Sundance), February 26, 2010 (United States)
Where to watch "The Yellow Handkerchief" (2008)
