On Golden Pond

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Chris B @Papa13070 May 19 This incredible film, by the ever so splendid Mark Rydell, is definitely one of the better films in his ever impressive filmography of incredible dramas, and indeed highly deserving of all the praise and awards it has gotten. The actors all do an incredible job, as one would expect from such a legendary cast, most of them, if not all, very big and acclaimed names, and the script accompining them is splendidly written, very well paced, and incorporating the perfect amount of drama and romance. The cinematography, cutting and editing is incredible, truly the work of a true auteur, and very beautifully put together. Overall, indeed one of the all time greats, and highly recommended for any lover of film! Truly a masterpiece. See more Vincent S @Vin_E_At_The_Movies Mar 2 Just the fact that Henry Fonda and Katherine Hepburn acting together in a movie is iconic. This funny, emotional and entertaining drama does not disappoint at all. i love the pacing, the time that director Mark Rydell takes to let this movie breathe. It is funny, touching and entertaining and the acting is splendid. You couldn't ask for anything more from a Henry Fonda, Katherine Hepburn movie. See more Kevin R @RT12774645 Oct 28 On Golden Pond is a film that delves into the relationship between daughter and father, which mirrors Henry and Jane Fonda's real-life relationship to some degree (according to Jane). It's warm, beautiful, and sentimental in a good way. Interestingly enough, Henry Fonda will win an Academy Award for his work, but passes away not long after his daughter Jane accepts it at the Academy Awards. Beautifully photographed in a wonderful area in central New Hampshire and in a real house on the lake, altered for the film, then kept by the owner after the production concluded. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/On_Golden_Pond_(1981_film)#:~:text=Anthony%20Michael%20Hall%20auditioned%20for,Lake%20in%20Holderness%2C%20New%20Hampshire. See more Mark H @RT00262860 Jul 30 A beautiful film with great acting, fine direction, a bucolic setting and a gorgeous score. The only criticisms are about the theme, because the movie is intentionally sentimental and moving. I find that view puzzling. Horror movies are intended to be scary, comedies funny and sappy tearjerkers are supposed to be sappy tearjerkers. I personally feel these criticisms are coming from people who are simply uncomfortable with being moved to tears. Many people are. Some people called this movie “manipulative.” That’s taking it a bit far, but they aren’t exactly wrong. The movie is deliberately sad and moving. If it was absurd, or wasn’t realistic or believable, those criticisms would make more sense. It’s almost as if the movie being successfully moving is precisely what some viewers didn’t like. Henry Fonda is perfect as cantankerous octogenarian, Norman Thayer. The cast is excellent, and the realism generated by Jane Fonda and her father in many ways portraying their own relationship is memorable. I love the lake. I grew up visiting a lake every summer with my family and now I live part time at the same lake. I may adore this movie in part because I see myself in Norman Thayer, retiring to the calm beauty of the lake in 20 years. See more Martin B @RT44235356 05/18/2025 What can you say everything about it was perfect from the setting on a lake, a star laden cast and reuniting Henry and daughter Jane in a movie. Hepburn as usual made it all work softening any negative elements plus providing her usual spark of energy. Jane a star in her prime melding effortlessly in a lesser role to the two powerhouses because it was necessary to make it all work. See more Bill R @RT21155226 02/01/2025 On Golden Pond transcends the boundaries of conventional storytelling, offering a profound exploration of life's intricate tapestry through the intertwined journeys of its two legendary leads, Henry Fonda and Katharine Hepburn. Their on-screen chemistry elevates the film, capturing the tender realities of aging, memory, and the enduring nature of human connection. Henry Fonda delivers a performance imbued with quiet introspection—a blend of strength and vulnerability that invites the audience to reflect on a lifetime of experiences. Alongside him, Katharine Hepburn offers a portrayal that is both graceful and powerful. Her nuanced performance radiates warmth and wisdom, capturing the essence of a character who embodies both resilience and grace in the face of life's inevitable challenges. Beyond its superb acting, the film is a visual and auditory feast. The breathtaking scenery serves as a symbolic backdrop that mirrors the internal landscapes of its characters, echoing themes of time, transformation, and renewal. Complementing the visual narrative is a beautifully composed soundtrack, whose subtle yet evocative motifs deepen the emotional resonance of each scene. In essence, On Golden Pond is not merely a film—it is an immersive reflection on the human experience. With masterful performances from Henry Fonda and Katharine Hepburn, the movie invites viewers to ponder their own journeys through life, the passage of time, and the enduring impact of genuine human connection. See more Read all reviews

On Golden Pond

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