“Paris, Texas” (1984): Among the Best from that Decade. Wim Wenders’s masterpiece is definitely among the best from the 1980s. His first film shot entirely in the United States, along with his signature themes combines storytelling and cinematography on a sublime level. Using the American south west as his canvas, we witness cinematographic artwork play out.
Thapson
Watching movies where an outsider gives their perspective of the US and its culture is always interesting. German director, Wim Wenders is one of them. His themes covering down on their luck souls searching for something that seems to have passed them by is once again the central themed in “Paris, Texas.” Like his earlier trilogy, this one also has a road movie element. And I put it among the best of the 1980s.
Synopsis
Travis Henderson
In the unforgiving desert in American south west, there’s a man walking dressed in clothes too warm for the baking sun. Disheveled, and seemingly lost, with only a cap on his head and a bottle of water, he collapses in a convenience store. Who, and where is he from? Why is he walking in the deadly heat? How did he end up here, and this point in his life?
Turns out, Travis Henderson’s been wandering aimlessly for four years. Picked up by his brother Walt, and taken home to Los Angeles, we learn more about the mysterious Travis. He has son, Hunter, who was brought up by Walt, and his wife Ann, who’ve developed a bond with the boy. Hunter is the only element that pulls Travis out of his stupor. Walt and Ann wonder about the consequences of this. What’s the missing link?
The Missing Link
Hunter’s mom, Jane is the missing link in this picture. Is she the reason for Travis’s breakdown, and ultimate wanderings? Apparently so. As things seem to come together, somewhat, at Walt’s home. Through conversations, home movies, we learn of the Travis’s earlier near idyllic life as the pieces fall in place. It’s also through these movies, and interactions that the reluctant Hunter starts accepting Travis as his dad.
But there’s still an air of suspense as we have no idea where this is going, adding to Ann’s distress, who worries for Hunter’s well-being. Hunter’s bonding with Travis, has the story taking a decisive turn. Suddenly, without warning, Travis and Hunter leave Los Angeles. Where are they going, what is their purpose, and do they succeed? And finally, what’s the significance of Paris, Texas?
You’d need to see the film for the dramatic, and emotional conclusion.
Notable Cast
Harry Dean Santon – Travis Henderson
Award winning veteran actor, Harry Dean Stanton returns yet another stellar role here. The only reason he likely did not get an award is because it wasn’t the acting, but the overall story and cinematography that takes center stage in the film.
Hunter Carlson – Hunter Henderson
Hunter Carlson as the initially hesitant, and later trusting son. Other notable movies he’s in include Invaders from Mars. He was the initial choice to play Bud on Married with Children. While central to the story, he’s grown up now, and gone on to other successes.
Dean Stockwell – Walt Henderson
No introduction is needed for Dean, for the large, interesting repertoire of roles he’s done. Wonderful portrayal of Walt as the exasperated, yet sympathetic brother.
Aurore Clemente – Ann Henderson
This is one of the few French actor Aurore’s roles in an English language movie. The others too were relatively minor. However, this, as a mentally torn foster mother, may be the most impactful part she’s played in an English language movie.
Natassja Kinski – Jane Henderson
Another major name actor, Natassja Kinski’s role in Paris, Texas, while small, is very pivotal and substantial. And pretty much all what the movie is about.
My Take
Wim Wenders, once again weaves a story of suspense, mystery, and life on the edge of society. The screenplay plays out remarkably leaving us mesmerized and drawn into the story. Cinematographer Robby Muller does a remarkable job capturing the American south west with its stark beauty, and unique lifestyle. And he does so far-removed from the Hollywood style. This cinematography, on its own, is a joy to experience. An amazing use of color, contrasts, and camera angles make for a wonderful movie experience that leaves one exhilarated by the time the story concludes.
If there was only one flaw, it would be where, and what was Travis Henderson doing during the four years before collapsing in the beginning of the film? But that would be knit picking, as the story stands great on its own. A beautiful production that stays in your mind long after the end credits.
Interesting Trivia
The film is German-French co-production
Harry Dean Stanton has credited Paris, Texas as his favorite in his filmography
One of the Akira Kurosawa’s favorite films
Roger Ebert included Paris, Texas among his “Great Movies” list
Wim Wenders is visible in shadow form, when Travis enters the club
Hollywood Burbank Airport aka Bob Hope Airport, is the one seen from the back of Walt’s house
For auto fans like me: Walt drives a 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme in the start of the movie, and the car Travis buys later is a 1959 Ford Ranchero
YouTube / DM Edit
The Last Word
The Swimmer failed commercially on its release. There could be various reasons for this. Most likely it was ahead of its time and came when Hollywood was transitioning into the new style of narrative as old movie executives were retiring. Hence, it’s “modern” feel for a movie of this vintage.
Also, the current Pandemic, has forced a re-think of priorities for many, likely leading to the renewed interest in “The Swimmer.”
The stars were lined up just right when the short story it’s based on, was not released as a full-length novel, as it was originally intended. Or we would have missed appreciating how well it was transferred to a full-length movie maintaining just the right impact. Kudos also go to Burt Lancaster for his portrayal resulting in a wonderfully introspective, poignant production that stays in your mind.
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