DISTANT VOICES, STILL LIVES (1988), HOUSEKEEPING (1987)

Distant Voices, Still Lives

Distant Voices, Still Lives is the story of a working class family in 40's and 50's Liverpool. It's a struggle to get by for the Davies family and their problems are exacerbated by an often abusive family patriarch (Pete Postlehwaite). The family uses music throughout to bond and get through hard times. Despite the creative and abundant use of song throughout, you are unlikely to leave this one taping your toes or whistling a tune.

He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart. Proverbs 11:29

Housekeeping

Life also isn't easy for the two young girls growing up in the Pacific Northwest during roughly the same time frame as Distant Voices, Still Lives. The girl's single mother commits suicide early in the story and they end up living with their eccentric Aunt (Christine Lahti). The characters are well drawn and the chemistry between the principles and the vibrant rustic setting add much to the film.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8