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David and Lisa1962
Two adolescents make a connection with each other in a home for disturbed youngsters. David Clemens was placed in the home by his mother because of his constant fear of being touched; while Lisa is a fifteen-year-old schizophrenic who speaks only in rhyme, when she speaks at all. David rejects the help of psychiatrist Alan Swinford but makes an emotional connection with Lisa. Because of his contact with Lisa, David eventually opens up to Swinford and his mother. But his mother is dissatisfied with his progress and takes him back home. Home life, however, consists of his mother's domineering ways and parental quarrels, so David runs away and returns to the home for disturbed youngsters. But then an argument with Lisa leads to a climactic confrontation.
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1 member likes this review
4 ½ Moving and compassionate story of mental illness that also feels authentic because of the slightly detached, documentary style and the fantastic performances from Dullea and Margolin. Parts are realistically uncomfortable, such as David’s hostility and the public’s unfriendliness to the children. The photography is beautiful, especially the scene in the museum where Lisa curls-up with the statue. Reminded me a bit of The Miracle Worker. Very fine!
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Member Reviews (7)
top reviewer
4 ½ Moving and compassionate story of mental illness that also feels authentic because of the slightly detached, documentary style and the fantastic performances from Dullea and Margolin. Parts are realistically uncomfortable, such as David’s hostility and the public’s unfriendliness to the children. The photography is beautiful, especially the scene in the museum where Lisa curls-up with the statue. Reminded me a bit of The Miracle Worker. Very fine!
1 member likes this review
top reviewer
". . . a pearl of a girl." I remember those words clearly from 50 years ago. They touched me deeply then and they effected me profoundly today. The film is not complete until you have watched it. Please do.
top reviewer
Frank Perry's David And Lisa (1962) is just such a beautiful film, a film that is not simply to be viewed, but to be experienced. For me, saying anymore about this film would just do it an injustice.
20 Stars !!!
top reviewer
3 1/2_sort of corny & stiff but i really like some parts_LIsa is wonderful & sweet _she's magic in this film_cool dream sequence & the city segment is cool too
This film is on my top five favorites of all time list. I haven't decided what the other four are yet.
one of my favorite movies of all time
what a great stumble upon