A Majority of One (1961)

“But honestly, it’s not a question of prejudice, I just don’t like to live with them. ” – Essie

Number of Times Seen – 1 (3 Aug 2016)

Brief Synopsis – A Jewish widow and a Japanese Widower try to overcome cultural diversity and hatred when they meet aboard a trans-Pacific ocean liner.

My Take on it – This is a film that I came across when browsing through Alec Guinness’ filmography.

I was shocked to see that he actually played a Japanese businessman and was quite interesting to see how realistic it would be.

This film is based on an Award winning stage play and with many adaptations from the stage, the dialogue is quite sharp and witty and we quickly begin to feel endeared to the characters.

The ideas presented in this film about cultural prejudices and finding ways to overcome racial and cultural differences still is relevant today 55 years after this movie came out including forgiveness and tolerance.

I can’t say I agree with them all, but to try and tackle certain issues only 15 years or so after World War II was quite bold and I complement them on doing such a thorough job of it all.

The cast is superb and my only qualm is the fact that I needed to keep reminding myself that Guinness was suppose to be Japanese because it was too easy to mistake it eventhough he (as always) does an amazing job.

I also liked the political aspects of the film.

A very good friend of mine use to work for the US State Department and I recall the stories he use to tell of his overseas assignments and I personally found it interesting to see how things supposedly were for the diplomatic corps back in the 60’s as opposed to what they have to do now.

Bottom Line – Great script filled with wondrous and witty dialogue.  The ideas presented here are definitely timeless and it’s easy to adapt such a story even to now.  Excellent cast despite having to keep reminding myself that Guinness is playing a Japanese man. Recommended!

MovieRob’s Favorite Trivia – When Mrs. Jacobi visits the home of Mr. Asano, the servant who answers the door and assists later is George Takei, “Mr. Sulu” of Star Trek. (From IMDB)

Rating – Globe Worthy

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