Lone Star: A Timeless Film Reflecting Border Conflict
The Border Racial Complexity
Back in 1978, writer and director John Sayles embarked on a journey that would lead him to create a timeless film known as Lone Star. While visiting the Alamo in San Antonio, Sayles was confronted with the racial complexity of the Texas border that had previously been omitted from common knowledge. This revelation sparked a deep interest in exploring the deep-rooted societal issues that came with it, such as Mexicans fighting for the US during the Texas battle for freedom, which was the freedom to own slaves.
The Tale of Sheriff Wade: A Western and a Detective Story
Lone Star tells the story of charismatic sheriff Charlie Wade, portrayed by Kris Kristofferson, whose reign is marked by immense power. Sayles’ script combines elements of a western and a detective story, providing a unique and captivating narrative. Notably, the script’s impressive quality resulted in immediate financing, allowing the vision to be realized promptly.
Casting Chris Cooper: The Perfect Choice
Chris Cooper, chosen to play the present-day sheriff investigating Wade’s murder, delivers an outstanding performance, imbued with the iconic American Gary Cooper charisma. Cooper’s ability to convey subtext was crucial during the film’s interrogation scenes, seamlessly encapsulating the complexity of his character’s emotional journey. Shot out of sequence, Cooper had to constantly align himself with the mystery’s progression and his character’s sentiments, a remarkable feat indeed.
The Artistry of Seamless Transitions
Forgoing traditional cuts between present and past, Sayles employed live transitions to emphasize the coexistence of history and the present. These transitions required meticulous planning and coordination, as observed in the challenging first transition from the present to Kristofferson’s timeline, where the crew had to swiftly reposition the actors. This artistic choice gave the impression that the characters carried their history within, a testament to the film’s depth.
A Timeless Commentary on Border Conflict
Lone Star remains a remarkable foresight into the enduring issue of border conflict that resonates even today. Sayles’s storytelling, ahead of its time, provides a powerful reflection on the challenging dynamics at the border. Despite the passage of time, it is clear that little progress has been made—illustrating that change in matters of such complexity is slow, if it occurs at all.
Presence … Kris Kristofferson in Lone Star. Photograph: AJ Pics/Alamy
Chris Cooper’s Take on Lone Star
Chris Cooper, the talented actor who brought the character of Sam Deeds, the present-day sheriff, to life, recalls the remarkable way in which Sayles approached him for the role. Sayles cunningly described Deeds as “laconic,” a characterization that took Cooper by surprise, as it perfectly complemented his acting style. Cooper’s portrayal draws on his personal experiences as a Texan, solidifying his understanding of the film’s poignant Texan backdrop.
Cooper elaborates on the genuine human connection that Sayles facilitated in his method of storytelling, favoring real, human interaction over green-screen technology prevalent in present times. Moreover, Sayles provides his actors with extensive character backgrounds, effectively aligning their visions and creating a solid foundation for exceptional on-screen performances.
Regarding the relationship between Sam Deeds and his father Buddy, Cooper draws from personal memories of his own father, with their love and occasional conflicts forming the basis of their on-screen connection. Cooper skillfully taps into the fundamental conflicts between father and son, irrespective of political differences, a deeply relatable aspect of the characters’ dynamic.
Cooper also reflects on the realization of the transgressive nature of the relationship between Sam and Pilar, the schoolteacher played by Elizabeth Peña. During a read-through, Cooper and Peña discovered the delicate and profound dance and subsequent love scenes, causing them to appreciate the importance of capturing the audience’s imagination and emotions. Cooper’s personal touch, such as playing with Peña’s hair and jokingly tickling her ear, added an authenticity that resonated with his own loving relationship with his wife.
Lone Star is an extraordinary film that remains two decades ahead of its time, as exemplified by its ability to address pertinent contemporary issues. John Sayles’s exceptional storytelling, coupled with the portrayal of seamless transitions between past and present, captivates audiences and serves as a stark reminder that progress on border issues still remains elusive.
Lone Star is available on streaming services and the Criterion Collection 4K UHD and Blu-ray editions.
