Bye Bye Braverman
Posted on May 13, 2009 at 3:58 pm
The wonderful Warner Archive has released another movie I remember fondly, Bye Bye Braverman. Director Sidney Lumet, showing the same feel for the city evident in his other films like “Dog Day Afternoon” and “Serpico,” made this film about four New York Jewish intellectuals on their way to a funeral. They bicker, they get lost, they consider the meaning of life. Not much happens, but a lot happens.
It’s not a classic by any means, but it has moments of enormous richness and poignancy and beautiful performances by everyone involved, especially Phyllis Newman, Zohra Lampert, and Godfrey Cambridge in smaller roles. And of course New York City playing the lead.
I first saw this movie at the U. of Wisconsin (Madison)when it first came out. I dragged two friends to it (one at a time) after my first viewing. Yes, it drags in sections, but then that is life, no? I liked the whole movie, but the last scene really nailed me. The most true depiction of life I have ever seen. Well worth viewing.
I am so happy to find another fan of this neglected gem! Many thanks Marjorie. I hope your comment inspires people to watch this film.