The Snow Goose

What a relief to find I'm not the only person on whom 'The Snow Goose' had such deep and lasting impact. It's quite simply one of the best films ever made and the importance of its availability cannot be overestimated. This is one of the few movies which can, literally, change lives, and yet seems to be the one thing unavailable. While I esteem Mr. Gallico immensely for writing such a magnificent story and screenplay (who wouldn't?), one can't help but question why he would have written the screenplay did he not wish a filmed version to be created for posterity. To the marrow of my bones I believe the re-releasing of his movie would be honouring Gallico's memory. This is honestly a sort of crusade as far as I'm concerned. It goes far beyond just wanting a copy for myself (though, of course, I do!). 'The Snow Goose' should be a gift to the world: like air, water, beauty, and grace, available to all. Perhaps if enough of us join together and petition Hallmark, the Beeb, Gallico's estate, etc., we could save this splendid creature. Individuals joining together over something worth a struggle can have remarkable results ... Just an update to let everyone know I've started a facebook group, 'Fans of The Snow Goose,' hope you'll give it a look. It's really boring now because I'm actually the only member! Sorry!

Those of us who were fortunate to have seen this made-for-television production from the Hallmark Hall of Fame have never forgotten it and continue to hope that someone, somehow will find a way to make it available on DVD or video. My understanding is that Mr. Gallico specified in his Will that it was not to be made commercially available, but why he would do such a thing is beyond me! He wrote both the book and the screenplay and the final product was an exquisite use of the medium. Richard Harris has never given a better performance in his career, indeed, all the fuss about his appearance in the Harry Potter movies only reminds me that this wonderful performance is virtually unknown to most people. It is not an exaggeration to say that you cannot watch this film and come away unmoved.

A simple, beautifully-filmed story about a reclusive, hunchbacked lighthouse keeper (Richard Harris) and an orphaned girl (Jenny Agutter, whose beauty shines through her masculine clothing) brought together by an injured snow goose. The story is played out against the backdrop of early Second World War England, but the primary story is about these two outcasts and how their friendship, and their care for the goose, allows them to overcome the pain the rest of the world has inflicted on them. Tragic, unforgettable, yet never mawkish, and never a false note.

Having been brought up just a few minutes from the Essex sea marshes, this film has always had a special poignancy for me.

I first saw The Snow Goose during the Christmas holidays in 1971 and it has remained the most moving film I have ever been privileged enough to watch. Everything about the film is as near perfection as it is possible to get. Richard Harris gives a masterful performance as Philip Rhayader and the young and incredibly beautiful (then and now) Jenny Agutter matches him scene for scene with a maturity beyond her years. I have a lump in my throat every time I watch it and I watch it at least once a month.

It is criminal that this film is not commercially available for generations yet unborn to revere as do all those who were fortunate enough to see it. If ever a film deserved a ten plus, this is it.

Postscript: In October 2007, almost 36 years after first watching it, I had the most memorable moment of my film viewing career when I saw a perfect version of The Snow Goose at the BFI, London, while sitting next to my friend Jenny Agutter. Tears were running down my face at the end.

I'm excited to finally find people who remember this film, which I saw on the original Hallmark Hall of Fame airing. It made quite an impression on me and must be the only "favorite" that I've seen a single time. I have read the book many times, and would love to see the film version again.

I've had cable TV for many years and have never seen it listed anywhere. How have people been seeing it since 1971? I haven't gotten any satisfaction from people in Hallmark stores and never got an email response to inquiries.

I recently purchased a DVD copy of the George C. Scott version of Jane Eyre, which I also saw only on Hallmark Hall of Fame (1968?). That revived my hope of finding Snow Goose. Would love to hear from anyone who actually has a copy. Thank you for the info in the comments!