Poem first published in the 2022 Capital City Film Festival Poetry Project Journal
Last year I had the pleasure of becoming a Capital City Film Festival Poet for the inaugural year of the poetry project. The assignment was to watch a film during the festival and write poetry based on the piece. I had initially sent in my application in early 2020, but because of COVID-19, delays occurred and we finally convened last year. A big thank you to our sponsor, Redhead Creative Consultancy, that made the 2022 CCFF Poetry Project Journal possible!
The movie I was chose (and was fortunate enough to get assigned) was The Dinner Parting written by J.W. Andrew and Luke Allen Hackney. The film is a comedy that is shot in black and white with a trail of chaos following the dinner hosts. Trying to hide the truth, the characters engage with one another and create a yarn that will leave you wanting more.
This is the poem inspired by The Dinner Parting.
NOSTALGIA ON THE SILVER SCREEN
Nostalgia shines bright on the silver screen,
the air is electric, we await the first scene.
Sponsors and ads – a hilarious short
paving the way for the film to transport.
Shot black and white, like an era of old –
Will Cary Grant appear as the story unfolds?
Lighthearted comedy, deception, romance
experiencing characters writhe in the dance.
After every deception, another is vital –
continued charade in each character’s recital.
Unwittingly victims arrive without knowing
dinner is a guise – more of a showing.
They’ve entered a romp – a satirical story,
each character blinded by personal glory.
What is the endgame? They each have their own…
finding love, showing off, fear of being alone.
The evening declines, guests are embroiled
as each ascertains something has spoiled.
A chortle of disgust rounds off the dinner
the conclusion results in one true winner.
Amusing attempts to deceive have left wonder
once held together has now gone asunder.
The hero prevails while antagonists revealed
layers of the plot are no longer concealed.
The credits roll and the script is a wrap –
a success! Sentimental yearning was tapped,
the audience is left with a craving for more
departing with a thirst for a comedic encore.
Original Publication:
Flanner, Emily. “Nostalgia on the Silver Screen.” CCFF Poetry Project Chapbook, Redhead Creative Consultancy 2022, p 14.
© Emily Flanner, all rights reserved
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