Yesterday Cooley High was on TV. I had not seen this film in years. I really enjoy rediscovering old movies that over time I may have forgotten about. On the internet the film has been compared to American Graffiti. I don't quite get the comparison unless you account for how the movie does just drop you right into a day in the lives of those on the screen. The characters are engaging enough that you want to follow along. One thing I did enjoy was that the movie does not fall victim to the many black exploitation films made during the seventies. I really think this movie has stood the test of time.
Here is the movie summary as found on the IMDB.
In the mid-1960's, a group of high school friends who live on the Near North Side of Chicago enjoy life to the fullest...parties, hanging out, meeting new friends. Then life changes for two of the guys when they meet a pair of career criminals and get falsely arrested in connection with stealing a Cadillac. We follow their lives through the end of high school and the dramatic end to their school year.
The song played above was orginally recorded by G.C. Cameron and was used in one of the final scenes. The original version can be heard here http://youtu.be/sUDVj7qPqRE
I found this song to be very moving as I reflected back on the past few years. Years in which both of my in laws and other friends have past away. Even as recently as a few short weeks ago when my brother in law passed and then the same week another friend. It can be rough looking back but in your memories those whom you loved can live on. It's good to remember.
My hope is that you'll play the video again and think of your loved ones and not just those who are no longer with you. Think of those still here. We may not have forever but we do have now.
2 comments:
Very touching. My condolences on the recent losses - I know how difficult that can be. I agree that it's good to remember those lost and to remember those that are still here and need to be thought of as well.
Oh my.. I so sorry to hear all the loss you and your family has had to endure. I hope it has made you guys stronger.
I remember my Grandmother the most. She would be so proud of me,and I find myself missing her alot at times. Her and my grandfather were my rock.
So I have learned to become the rock for mine. I have learned I have made an impact on them.
Life is short and it can be taken away in a split second,or changed forever.
I am greatful for all my friends and family.
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