THE PARTY (1968)

Directed by: Blake Edwards
Written by: Blake Edwards, Tom Waldman, Frank Waldman
Studio: United Artists
Starring: Peter Sellers, Claudine Longet, Marge Champion
Rated: PG

About the film:
When an incompetent Indian actor ruins a day’s shooting, the studio intends to fire him. A clerical error sends him an invitation to an exclusive Hollywood party instead of a pink slip. He arrives and, as his nature is, brings chaos with him.

Movie Quote:
“Wisdom is the province of the aged, but the heart of a child is pure.”
Hrundi V. Bakshi (Peter Sellers) in The Party (1968)

Bible Quote:
“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Luke 18:17 (NIV)

Commentary:
He may be an incompetent buffoon who destroys just about everything he touches but Hrundi V. Bakshi makes at least one valid observation. Senior citizens as well as the very young possess positive qualities or traits attributable to their age.

Wisdom is simply learned knowledge that has been applied in one’s life. The more one experiences, the broader and deeper his or her wisdom becomes. Children should look to their elders and respect the knowledge and wisdom that comes with age and experience.

At the same time, older generations may continue to learn from the very young. Children do possess qualities which are much to be admired and emulated. Their pureness of heart, the degree to which they trust, and their ability to believe fully without doubt or reservation; these are qualities that we often lose as we grow older.

God wants us to discover them again in our dealings with Him. He wants us to know that we can trust Him implicitly and believe in His Word with all of our heart without fear, worry or doubt. He wants us to approach Him as beloved little children for that is exactly how He sees and how He loves us.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What is the main reason we lose our pureness of heart as we grow older? How might we recapture it?
2. Why does Jesus say that unless we receive the kingdom of God like a little child, we won’t enter into it? What does he mean?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com