Pieces of Dreams

William E. Barrett's novel "The Wine and the Music" turned into trite Problem Solving movie of today (circa 1970). A young priest in Albuquerque is burdened with housewives who want to go on the Pill and teenagers who want to drop acid--but who is he to give holy advice when a pretty social worker has him contemplating his vows? Simple-minded drama, romanticizing then-current issues, has not a wisp of wit. The tinkly background score by Michel Legrand (and the Oscar-nominated title song co-written by Legrand with Alan & Marilyn Bergman) seems to belong to a different picture altogether, while Robert Forster (speaking in a laconic monotone) broods sexily, like a caged cat. Overall production (including a romantic montage at the lake and in the snow) is in the style of a cigarette advertisement. ** from ****

The love story of a priest (Robert Forster) and a rich, pretty social worker (Lauren Hutton) succeeds as enjoyable, slick entertainment. But when the movie strives for more depth -- a critical examination of controversial Catholic issues, for instance -- it is less successful. The questions of celibacy, abortion, and other topics are treated simplistically, most often used as plot devices. A Hollywood gloss, exemplified by an unfortunate romantic theme song, covers over everything including the filmmakers' serious intentions. Director Daniel Haller directs with TV-movie level efficiency and a measure of sensitivity toward the subject matter. While Hutton's sophisticated looks and style fit her role, Forster comes across as a talented actor impersonating a priest. They are both, however, extremely attractive, they speak their well-written lines well, and they are handsomely photographed.

I watched this movie on TMC and was surprised it had the unique content for the 70's. This movie was a little before it's time.(but then maybe NOT!)

For the baby boomers, we had to struggle with "love vs religion" , and find our own pathways. The couple seem to fit together, and opposites attract. And are they just that. OPPOSITE!

I just enjoyed watching this movie and understand both sides of their feelings 100%. So pragmatic! love it!

The title is a tiny bit misleading,

but the movie is awesome!

Pieces of Dreams plays like an afterschool special writ large or an overambitious TV movie of the week. Robert Forster is the hip young priest in Alburquerque, Lauren Hutton the attractive young social worker, and together they make beautiful if decidedly profane music. Forster tries to balance his love for Hutton with his love for the Church, but must come to terms with his pledge of celibacy (a rule that the Monsignor, played by Will Geer, confidently predicts will soon be changed or eliminated!). The film tries to be honest and earnest but is predictable every step of the way, complete with happy ending and cloying theme song. There's even a acid head in granny glasses waiting to be saved by Forster. Overall, a relatively painless but not terribly inspiring 90 minutes.

This is one of the corniest movies I have ever seen. The two leads are decent actors, but please my nerves, could it be any more predictable or full of lousy cliches? It's not just that it's dated, it's just that it was a bad movie when it first came out in 1970 -- I remember it. I disliked it then and can't believe I watched it again. ICK!