MovieChat Forums > What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1994) Discussion > One of the most beautiful scenes I have ...

One of the most beautiful scenes I have ever seen on film...

posted 9 years ago by CCBgirl8
10 replies | jump to latest

is the smile on Gilbert's face after he sees Arnie jump in the water (after having beat him). It felt like someone yanked my heart out, set it on fire, and shoved it back in. So many emotions going on in Gilbert...pain over what he had done, pride in Arnie's courage, but mainly happiness because he knew that Arnie was going to be okay. Also, I believe this is the moment he fell in love with Becky. Such a subtle gesture, but so powerful. Brilliant acting by Johnny Depp.

[–] bzhbles09321 9 years ago

I totally agree.
This film has some of the best backgrounds ever.

[–] Ginnysababe 9 years ago

Hey so I'm curious, does this scene speak to your own experiences? Why do you like it so much? Like I get why it's a great scene, but why do YOU like it so much? It would help me a ton hearing what you think that is. And no, it doesn't have to relate to your own experience or perception of the world, your answer can simply be "idk I just like it!" Thanks man.

[–] CCBgirl8 9 years ago

Hi! Sorry for the late reply...I don't regularly check imdb. BTW, not that it's necessarily a bad thing, but this feels like an English essay question. haha
Well, when I watch movies, I am always searching for that human connection that EVERY movie has. It can be action-packed and dramatic like the scenes in Gravity, or subtle, as in this scene in Gilbert Grape. For me, a movie is worthless if I don't care about the characters...or at least want to understand them to some degree. I had anger toward Gilbert, but when Arnie jumped in the water, I truly felt Gilbert's reaction. I really understood his character. It was a beautifully perfect cinematic moment.

[–] Ginnysababe 9 years ago

This is an answer I was hoping for. Thank you so much for taking the time to respond!

[–] CCBgirl8 9 years ago

Awesome...I wasn't sure. I actually appreciate the movie a lot more because you asked that question. :)

[–] reltihizan 9 years ago

Both of you should kiss

[–] CCBgirl8 9 years ago

hahaha

[–] kinnis-1 9 years ago

This film being one of my all-time favourites..one which I can relate to... Some scenes are just perfectly written like you say, the film tugs at heart strings when Arnie can't understand why he's done wrong (so well written...with someone with learning difficulties)

Why Leo never won an Oscar for this..is baffling!

[–] Natalie62 9 years ago

Agreed!

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"These go to 11."

[–] Natalie62 9 years ago

I agee about that scene- it's beautiful. Another of my favorite scenes where you see such emotion on Gilbert's face is at Arnie's birthday party where Gilbert and Amy are playing the game of "Where's Arnie?" When Arnie drops down in front of Gilbert, the look you see on Gilbert's face has such emotion in it. I feel the same as you...so subtle but yet performed so wonderfully by Johnny Depp- he is just an amazing actor.

"These go to 11."