'Life is about remembering' sums up the provocative and troubling movie Paris, Texas.  Like a new baby who cannot talk or satisfy the necessities of life without assistance, the movie takes us through a journey of watching an unknown man gain his voice, ability to take care of himself, and finally his memory. 

As he reconciles with his sons, he recalls that he is a father and begins to assume the role of a parent.  As he searches and finds his wife, he recollects his past and begins to take responsibility for his actions.

The movie reminds us that we all carry blocked memories that inhibit our ability to grow and to deeply connect with our deeper selves and with those around us. The poignant conversation between this man and his estranged wife through a sealed window allows them both to confront their shared past and begin the process of healing. We are taught that when we risk truly remembering, when we are open to reliving the past with those that we may have hurt or who have hurt us, a door of opportunity will open for us into the future. 

The movie does not present a comfortable or complete ending. There are no guarantees that hurt relationships can be fully mended.   Rather, it invites us to consider the necessity of making the difficult journey of coming to terms with whom we have become because of what we have done.  Paris, Texas is only for those who are willing to embark on a disturbing pilgrimage toward self-knowledge.

Film essay by Rabbi Arthur Gross-Schafer.  Dr. Gross-Schaefer is a Rabbi and a professor of philosophy at Loyola Marymount University. 

Discussion Panelists:  Scott Derrickson,  Dr. Jack Miles, Rev. Rebecca Ver Straten-McSparran

Paris, Texas screening
Sunday, November 12, 5:45 pm