A few weeks ago The Guardian gave away a free DVD of Cinema Paradiso; tonight while Sarah was out (as subtitles films are not her thing) I got around to watching it.

I found myself captivated by the film which tells the story of Salvatore who just learns of the death of Alfredo, a close friend who became his father figure following the death of his father serving for the Italian army in Russia.

The story is told as Salvatore lies on his bed in the dark and reminisces about his boyhood growing up in Sicily, thinking back to the places and people that he has not seen in 30 years.

I found this movie touched me on a variety of planes. It caused me to think of boyhood memories, of things I used to be passionate about and also to think on why I lost those passions. The lack of father figure thing always provokes some sort of reaction within me, and I guess that it always will. I found myself starting to relive my childhood ideas through Salvatore; and I guess when you connect with a film in that way it just adds to the enjoyment.

The end of the film is very moving as Salvatore is able to watch cut bits of movies which are a gift without the oppressive censoring of the church. I can’t say too much in case you want to go and watch the film!

In some ways, as we move to the end of the film, there is a connection with the Prodigal Son. Despite 30 years of absence, Salvatore returns home to find there is still a place for him, there is still love for him, and even those outside his immediate family still remember him.

Doesn’t matter where I look at the moment, just seems that God is everywhere and using every means possible to communicate with his creation.