Steven Spielberg, a name synonymous with cinematic magic, has gifted us countless masterpieces, from the groundbreaking "Jaws" that redefined the summer blockbuster to Oscar-nominated marvels spanning six decades. Yet, even titans of industry have their hidden gems, films they feel have been unjustly overlooked. At a recent SXSW presentation, the maestro himself revealed a personal favorite, a film that often lands on critics' "least favorite" lists: the 1989 fantasy romance, "Always."
A Director's Underrated Affection
It's fascinating to me that Spielberg, a director who rarely looks back, would champion a film that has largely faded from public consciousness. He admitted during the panel that he fears dwelling on the past might stifle his forward momentum, a sentiment many creatives can relate to. However, when pressed about his most underrated work, "Always" emerged, much to the audience's surprise and delight. This film, a remake of the 1943 classic "A Guy Named Joe," clearly holds a special place in his heart. Personally, I think this is where the real intrigue lies – in a director's personal connection to a project that the wider world seems to have forgotten or dismissed. What makes this particularly fascinating is that even a "weakest" Spielberg film, as famously described by Roger Ebert, is still a cut above much of the competition.
Beyond the Blockbuster Persona
"Always" is a departure from the high-octane adventures and thrilling narratives that often define Spielberg's oeuvre. The story centers on Pete Sandich (Richard Dreyfuss), a daring firefighter-pilot whose reckless bravery ultimately leads to his demise. In the afterlife, he's tasked by a spirit guide, Hap (Audrey Hepburn in her final role), to return to Earth as a guardian angel for a young pilot trainee, Ted (Brad Johnson). The emotional core, however, lies in Pete's struggle as his former girlfriend, Dorinda (Holly Hunter), begins to find solace and love with Ted. In my opinion, this is where the film's sensitivity truly shines. While many might argue the original "A Guy Named Joe" is superior, there's an undeniable, albeit sometimes clumsy, charm to Spielberg's rendition. The performances are universally strong, with Dreyfuss, Hunter, and John Goodman (as Pete's best friend Al) delivering their best, even if the script doesn't always provide them with the richest material.
A Deeper Look at Sentimentality
What this really suggests is Spielberg's enduring love for stories that explore profound human emotions, even if they lean into sentimentality. "Always" is undoubtedly one of his most heartfelt films, a testament to his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. One thing that immediately stands out is how the film grapples with themes of loss, love, and moving on. It's a delicate balance, and while it might not always hit every note perfectly, the intention is palpable. From my perspective, the film's perceived weakness might actually be its greatest strength for those willing to embrace it: its unashamed emotionality. It's a reminder that even a director known for spectacle can craft intimate, soul-stirring narratives.
The Enduring Appeal of "Always"
So, is "Always" worth revisiting? If you're a dedicated Spielberg completist or a lover of deeply romantic tales, then absolutely. My advice would be to approach it with an open mind, setting aside any preconceived notions of what a "Spielberg film" should be. Instead, try to see the genuine affection for the story and its characters that the director poured into it. It's a film that, in its own quiet way, speaks volumes about love's enduring power and the courage it takes to let go. It makes me wonder what other cinematic treasures are waiting to be rediscovered, simply because they didn't fit the conventional mold of their creator's more famous works.
