The Company You Keep: A Deep Dive into Redemption and Relationships
Ever scroll through streaming services, searching for something gripping? Sometimes, amidst flashy new releases, a gem from the past deserves a look. "The Company You Keep" might just be that movie, blending crime drama and human connection, with a hint of Hollywood charm.
Let’s get one thing straight. Is "The Company You Keep" a documentary from the headlines? Nope. It draws inspiration from the Weather Underground, a radical left-wing group from the 1960s and 70s, but it’s a fictional story. Think of it as a broad "what if" scenario.
The story begins when Sharon Solarz, played by Susan Sarandon, turns herself in for her past involvement with the Weather Underground. This decision sets off a series of events, impacting reporter Ben Shepard, portrayed by Shia LaBeouf. During his investigation, Ben finds another lead: Jim Grant. Jim is an ordinary, recently widowed lawyer played by the iconic Robert Redford, who also has ties to the group.
Before you can say "scoop," Jim Grant, or should we say Nick? Identity is tricky. He is on the run from the FBI. His mission? To find Mimi, his former flame and fellow activist, who is still living underground, portrayed by Julie Christie. The plot sums up nicely: After a botched robbery, a former member of the Weather Underground surrenders, leading to a reporter unveiling another member, a lawyer, who then goes on the run.
If you seek closure or want to know whether you can invest your time without feeling cheated, here's a spoiler-light look at the ending. As Ben reviews his article about a cover-up tied to the Michigan bank robbery and Jim's past with Mimi, news breaks that Mimi has surrendered. Consequently, all charges against Jim, or Nick, drop. Justice, or some version of it, is served.
Robert Redford: Ageless or Just Agelessly Cool?
Let's discuss Robert Redford. The man is a legend. But there is often that question when seasoned actors take on roles: age. During filming, Redford was around 76. Some might joke, "When will he accept he isn't ageless?" It’s a valid point. Remember "The Horse Whisperer," where a 62-year-old Redford acted alongside a 38-year-old? Eyebrows were raised.
Now, at 76, he plays a former Weather Underground member. That might stretch credibility for some. However, Redford adds gravitas and charisma that few can match. He is Robert Redford.
Despite any skepticism, Redford isn't just acting; he’s involved. He produced "The Company You Keep" alongside Nicolas Chartier and Bill Holderman. Filming took place in Vancouver, adding Canadian scenery to this American tale. Beyond producing and acting, Redford's life off-screen is interesting. He and his wife, Sibylle Szaggars, mainly reside in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
While "Avengers: Endgame" is considered his semi-retirement, he hasn't vanished. He voiced projects and executive produced the TV series "Dark Winds" since 2022. While he may take it easier, the Redford magic remains.
Speaking of magic, what's Redford's best movie? Critics point to "All Is Lost," with an impressive 95% rating. Food for thought for movie night.
TV Series Cancellation: Why "The Company You Keep" Didn't Keep Going
Switching gears, let's look at the recent TV series named "The Company You Keep," featuring Milo Ventimiglia and Catherine Haena Kim. If you hoped for a season two, brace for disappointment. ABC canceled "The Company You Keep" after just one season.
Why? In network television, performance is key. Produced by 20th Television, part of Disney TV Studios, "The Company You Keep" didn’t resonate with audiences as ABC hoped. It premiered alongside two other midseason shows in 2023: "Will Trent" and "Not Dead Yet." While "Will Trent" got renewed and "Not Dead Yet" seems promising, "The Company You Keep" sadly didn't make the cut.
Character Breakdown: Navigating the Web of Relationships
Characters are vital in any good story, and "The Company You Keep" has intriguing individuals. Let’s break down key players:
- Sharon Solarz (Susan Sarandon): The catalyst. Her surrender opens a Pandora's Box of secrets. Why did she turn herself in after all this time? That’s part of the mystery.
- Ben Shepard (Shia LaBeouf): The determined reporter. Ben's curiosity drives the plot. He connects Sharon's surrender to Jim Grant's hidden past.
- Jim Grant/Nick (Robert Redford): The man on the run. He must face his past and evade the FBI while searching for Mimi, leading to a tense journey.
- Mimi (Julie Christie): The elusive former lover. Mimi symbolizes Jim’s past and perhaps a still-burning idealism. Finding her is crucial for Jim emotionally and practically.
- Emma & Charlie (TV Series context): They aren't in the movie but appear in the TV series finale. Emma wants Charlie to remain as a CIA asset to fight corruption from within. Charlie declines, noting why their paths are incompatible, showcasing conflicting loyalties between personal and professional lives.
Themes Explored: Beyond the Thriller Plot
"The Company You Keep" isn’t just a chase movie; it explores deeper themes.
- Moral Dilemmas and Past Transgressions: The film tackles whether and how we pay for past mistakes born of youthful idealism. Is justice purely about punishment, or can it involve redemption and understanding?
- Consequences of Youthful Folly and Political Idealism: The film highlights long-term repercussions from decisions made in youthful passion and political fervor. What occurs when ideals clash with reality and actions impact decades?
- Friendships and Romantic Relationships Across Racial Lines: The Company We Keep explores relationships among diverse groups. It aims to provide nuanced insights into contemporary race relations through friendships and romances, adding social commentary to the film.
"The Company You Keep": More Than Just a Title
The phrase "The Company You Keep" isn’t merely a catchy title; it carries meaning. It's an old saying emphasizing social influence. "You are the company you keep." This remains relevant today. Those you associate with shape how others see you. In the movie's context, this applies to Jim Grant's past connections and how they haunt him.
Expanding further, "The Company We Keep" explores friendships and romantic relationships across racial backgrounds. It seeks to understand complex race relations today through personal connections, adding social depth to the narrative beyond a standard thriller.
The Significance of Endings: Tying It All Together
The power of a good movie ending cannot be underestimated. It’s the final note and lasting impression. A movie’s ending reflects its narrative quality. It ties all plot threads together, resolving loose ends or deliberately leaving them untied. A satisfying conclusion can elevate a film from good to great.
In "The Company You Keep," the ending offers resolution with Mimi’s surrender and dropped charges against Jim. It might not be a Hollywood happy ending, but it provides closure and allows reflection on themes of redemption and relationships. For viewers who appreciate films that make you think even after the credits roll, "The Company You Keep" offers a rich journey with a thoughtful conclusion. It may be time to add it to your watchlist and decide if it's worth keeping for an evening.
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