I have been an admirerer of the 1992 film, Scent of A Woman for many years. Of course, powerful performances, on-target direction and brilliant cinematography create the logical rationale for such veneration. But I believe there is more to it.
I find the movie inspiring on many levels. But perhaps it is most dynamic as it suggests our vulnerabilities in life… encountering devastating disappointments and finding the fortitude to regroup and move on. Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade (Al Pacino), after suffering an injury which left him blind, can find no strand of redemption. But an unlikely encounter with a seemingly random young man, Charlie Simms (Chris O’Donnell) restores his soul.
I won’t spoil the overall story here. But I will point out two scenes in the film which continue to move me, no matter the number of viewings…
The Tango
During a Thanksgiving Weekend sojourn to NYC, Frank and Charlie find themselves in a lush ballroom. The orchestra specializes in playing tango music. Frank approaches a young woman at a nearby table in a quest to endorse Charlie as a potential suitor. As the encounter evolves, Frank asks the young woman if she has ever danced the tango. One thing leads to another and soon Frank and the young woman are on the dance floor.
The tango scene represents a deeper connection and trust between Frank and Charlie. In order for him to efficiently navigate the dance floor, Frank asks Charlie to describe its physical attributes. What follows is a rousing exhibition of dance and emotion between a lovely young woman and a blind middled-aged man… and Charlie, on the sidelines, beaming with pride. Throughout the film, the relationship between Frank and Charlie evolves from an initially strained dynamic, to a deep and genuine friendship. The tango scene is a culmination of their bond. As Charlie watches Frank dance, he comes to appreciate the opportunities that life has to offer.
In fact, the tango sequence may serve as a metaphor for life itself—complex, challenging, and yet beautiful. It reflects the ups and downs, the push and pull, and the harmony and discord that exist within human experiences. It underscores the film’s themes of resilience, self-discovery and embracing the moment despite the obstacles.
The Ferrari
Frank expresses to Charlie, early-on, of his ultimate passion for women. But in second place, he says, is a sleek, speedy Ferrari. At one point during the New York trip, Charlie, sensing Frank’s depression, accompanies him to a Ferrari dealership. Here he has the intention of taking Frank on a test drive. After persuading a reluctant car salesman, the two are soon cruising along the New York City streets. But Frank is still despondent. He convinces Charlie to let him drive.
It is an exhilarating ride, not only for Frank and Charlie, but also for us, the viewers. Though an unlikely premise, the Ferrari sequence encourages the idea of embracing risk and accepting the consequences that come with it.
Frank acknowledges that his actions may have negative repercussions, but he chooses to live in the moment, fully aware of the potential dangers. This theme of embracing risk ties into the larger message of the film about seizing opportunities and not being afraid to take chances. Both Frank and Charlie seem to benefit from this realization.
There are many other wonderful moments in Scent of A Woman. But these two especially, drive home the hopeful foundation of our lives.
If you’ve never seen Scent of A Woman, you may want to give it a look-see. If you’ve already had the pleasure….why not see it again? Hoo-ah!
billbenbarker 