Golden Years in “Silver Skies”
By Skip Sheffield
“Silver Skies” is the name of an older adult rental complex in
Los Angeles. It is also the title of a movie written and directed by Rosemary
Rodriguez (“The Good Wife” TV series 2009-2016).
This movie was the centerpiece attraction at the 2016 Fort
Lauderdale International Film Festival. The choice was appropriate, because we
certainly have plenty of retirees in our area.
“Silver Skies” also afforded work to actors who are past
their prime. The principal one is George Hamilton, who plays an actor named
Phil who is entering early stages of Alzheimer’s dementia. Phil lives with Nick
(Jack McGee), who works at a local horse race track.
I initially assumed Phil and Nick were a gay couple, but no.
Nick develops a crush on Ethel (Valerie Perrine).
The essential dilemma of “Silver Skies” is that the building
is being sold to be converted to condos. Residents can either purchase (at a
greatly increased price) their apartments, or get out. They have just 30 days
to make a decision.
One tenant, Harriett (Mariette Hartley) has the wherewithal to
solve the problem. But the building’s attorney (Heather McComb) and its seedy
manager (Micah Hauptman), are rigid.
Just when you think all is lost, there is a last-minute plot
twist that saves the day.
It is great fun seeing actors we grew up with, such as Alex
Rocco, who died July 18, Howard Hesseman, Barbara Bain and Dick Van Patten
(playing himself). The Boca Raton/Delray Beach market is ideal for this film,
but younger people might learn a thing or two if they give it a look.
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