Joyce to the World 2004
Distributed by Choices, Inc., 3740 Overland Ave., Ste. F, Los Angeles CA 90034; (310) 839-1500
Producer n/a
Directed by Fritzi Horstman
VHS, color, 58 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Biography, Drama, Film Studies, Literature, Writing
Date Entered: 12/20/2004
Reviewed by Brad Eden, Ph.D., Head, Web and Digitization Services, University Libraries, University of Nevada, Las VegasThis video discusses the book Ulysses by the Irish writer James Joyce, and why it is read devotedly by many people over one hundred years after its writing. Numerous writers, academics, and readers discuss the importance of the book and its drama throughout the film that also includes extensive background on Joyce's life from his early years in Dublin to his self-exile in Europe. The video centers on the annual celebration of Bloomsday, in Ireland, every June 16th, the day on which the novel takes place. It shows how the celebrants visit the same locations in the novel at the same designated times; how they dress in costume; open the book; and raise a pint throughout the day, by following the actions of the fictional characters in the book.
The film also discusses Joyce's irreverent and brilliant place as Ireland's emissary to the world. There is many a humorous moment in the film, as Joyce makes fun of Irish heritage throughout his novel, and current enthusiasts are only too happy to portray their habits and traditions to the world as documented in Ulysses.
This film should be viewed by classes that are reading any of Joyce's works, but especially Ulysses. It documents the power of books and how words can still move people and cultures many years after they are written.