[usr 3.5]
A working-class Italian-American bouncer becomes the driver of an African-American classical pianist on a tour of venues through the 1960s American South.
“Green Book” is about two men from opposite sides of the track who find a way to come to terms with one another via a road trip. While this is the basic foundation of the film, the plot is developed through a series of incidents in which an African-American man, Dr. Shirley (Mahershala Ali), a real-life composer and well-known concert pianist, who was taught how to play by his mother, hires a Caucasian man, Tony Lip (Viggo Mortensen), who is a well-known Master of B.S., to protect him while he travels to different venues in the 1960’s deep south. Dr. Shirley, whose doctorate is based on his musical genius, has queried the town in search of a man of character who can handle any trouble that may come his way. Tony, who has just been laid off his job for a couple of months, needs to find a way to make money to care for his family during the transition. When Tony gets the opportunity to interview for the position, he envisions a medical doctor of his same race and a job that will be a breeze. He is in for a real surprise when he discovers his potential boss is African-American and the roles of servitude in the position are reversed. With this knowledge, Tony turns down the job and then later realizes that he really has no alternative, so he agrees to take on the responsibility with a few conditions, not knowing the position would alter his life forever.
The two start off with a rough patch as each believes whole-heartedly the other has truly insurmountable issues. The problem with Tony is that he has grown up around people who are just like him and he doesn’t understand African-American culture, let alone trust it. The problem with Dr. Shirley is that he has grown up denying his African-American culture, defending his uniqueness and refuses to embrace it for want of a more interesting lifestyle. As the concert path winds through the deep south along Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi, both men, interchangeably are met with opposition and prejudice. Through these events, they develop a tolerance for each other’s shortcomings and their relationship redefines itself as opportunities to protect each other from outside influences, present themselves. The humorous, yet poignant and educational aspects of this film showcase Tony teaching Dr. Shirley how to embrace his own culture as Dr. Shirley impresses upon Tony the need to strive for a better quality of life for himself and his family within his own circle of influence. Dr. Shirley, who makes it clear that he only needs Cutty Sark and a Steinway, and Tony who makes it clear that he only needs a paycheck, both realize there is more to life than they could have imagined.
Director Peter Farrelly has done an excellent job showcasing the integral parts of a deep racial divide while at the same time, strengthening and weakening known stereotypes. While there are some really strong and memorable scenes, there are also a few that are weak and forgettable. Overall, the historical data that is presented is relevant in painting a picture of a landscape that changes before our very eyes as the strong actors give depth and life to their roles. In the end, the coming together of thoughts and ideas far outweigh any misgivings about its purpose. The logical valuing of differences learned from the side of the road and in the midst of chaos, makes it a film worthy of the audience’s time and attention. Aside from the storyline, the music is phenomenal while showcasing the talent of twenty-nine-year-old Kris Bowers who composed the film’s score and doubled as Ali’s piano player.
In theaters Wednesday, November 21st
