Silicon Valley as it entered its pre-dot-com-bubble days. What I like to think of as Silicon Valley, Phase II. Phase I was the home computer revolution. Phase III is the globalization phase. Phase IV will be the destruction and dismantling phase. Much like Detroit and the auto manufacturers.
Dick Proenneke retired at age 50 in 1967 and decided to build his own cabin on the shore of Twin Lakes, Alaska. The first summer he scouted for the best cabin site, and cut and peeled the logs he would need for his cabin. Dick returned the next summer to finish the cabin where he lived for over 30 years. Dick filmed his adventures, and Bob Swerer later turned the film into a video so we can all watch this amazing man build his cabin by hand. Watch through Dick's eyes as he documents his dream with his 16mm wind-up Bolex camera, capturing his own amazing craftsmanship, the stunning Alaskan wildlife and scenery and even a visit from his brother Ray (Jake). His epic journey takes you on a vacation away from the hustle and bustle of today's fast-paced society, and is a true breath of fresh air.
I have always thought that Charleton Heston was an underused actor. He has a great deal more range and intensity than most people are willing to give him credit for. Here, he gets a chance to really test himself. Against Kenneth Branagh's brash scenery-chewing bravado, Heston appears subtle and in total command of his emotions. He also seems easily as aware of the layers of irony in this scene. Actors playing at acting, in a play about a play. And through all of that fog, the truth is so piercing coming from Heston, that it leaves me with a lump in my throat every time I watch it.